bikes trek 2023

• Stores Stores

All-new Trek bikes and gear are here

The best new bikes for your best-ever rides.

This collection of all-new Trek bikes will change the way you experience the road, city, or trail forever. Explore the groundbreaking lineup of all-new 2023 models here, and get ready for a full year of fun!

“Simply put, nothing comes closer to the Fuel EX-e when you paint the picture of the mountain bike experience as a whole.” - Pinkbike

“We’d go as far to say that it’s probably going to be the most significant bike launched this decade.” – Singletrack

“...I was in love with this bike. In fact, I’ve going to declare that this is one of the best mountain bikes - powered or unpowered - I’ve recently ridden.” – Bicycling

“Trek officially unveils the new Madone and it’s nothing we’ve seen before.” - Cyclingnews

“The new design ticks all of the requisite boxes for top-tier road racing machines: Lighter-weight, more aerodynamic, and more integration.” – Bicycling

“The brand new Trek Madone comes with a revolutionary design, but retains the neat and powerful look of its previous iterations.” – Rouleur.cc

Dual Sport+

“SO FUN!” The assist is perfect - I won’t be sweaty when I get to work! - Will, Sonoma County, CA

“SO SMOOTH!" What a light and nimble bike! I love the 1x drivetrain up front and the beautiful frame design. The bike feels solid and is very easy to control. – Colin, Houston, TX

*****(Five Stars) I love everything about it, this bike. Pedals smooth and quiet with no effort. The shifter is easy to user and makes changing gears smooth and seamless. Great bike for the new rider. – Jeff, Greenville, SC

Jack of all trails, master of fun.

Domane SLR & SL

Long live the road ride.

The best all-new gear for your best adventures

From water bottles to wheelsets, adventure bags to all-new apparel, great gear makes great experiences. Whatever your style and whatever you roam, there is something new to inspire every rider in this collection of all-new gear.

Kovee wheels

Say hello to the lightest XC mountain bike wheel we’ve ever made.

Cycling apparel

Explore road, city, and mountain bike apparel made for comfort, style, and performance in our collection of bike shorts, cycling jerseys, and more!

Recycled products

Using recycled materials helps to provide second life to unwanted end of life plastics.

Aeolus saddle

Streamlined for speed, sculpted for comfort.

XR4 tan wall tires

Incredible traction and cornering for loose and rocky trails, wet or dry.

Adventure bags

Fashion and function meet with our huge range of bags built take you wherever you want to go— and get your gear there safely, too.

Water bottles

Stay hydrated on every road, mountain, and city ride with bike water bottles and bottle cages that keep refreshments close at hand.

If you’re riding, you should be all lit up!

What’s all the buzz about? Visit us to see for yourself.

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

2023 Trek Domane SLR review: A tauter ride, but some curious loose threads

Trek’s latest iteration of its domane all-roader packs more performance than ever, but there are also some big missteps that give me pause..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Story Highlights

What it is: The fourth generation of Trek’s groundbreaking endurance road bike.|| Frame features: 800-series OCLV carbon fiber construction, IsoSpeed rear pseudo-suspension, down tube storage compartment, built-in chain watcher, T47 threaded bottom bracket, front and rear fender mounts, three bottle mounts, top tube feed bag mount, fully concealed cable routing.|| Weight: 1,193 g (claimed, 56 cm frame only); 427 g (claimed, fork only); 7.54 kg (16.62 lb) as tested, 52 cm size, without pedals.|| Price: US$13,200 / AU$18,500 / £13,400 / €14,500.|| Highs: Superb rear-end ride quality, stiff and efficient-feeling under power, excellent handling, sleek aesthetics, competitively weight.|| Lows: Ride quality still a little imbalanced, creaky IsoSpeed/seatpost area, exposed headset bearing, internal housing rub, disappointing tires.

The Trek Domane has been one of the best-selling endurance road bikes since it first arrived on the scene way back in 2012, largely owing to its innovative IsoSpeed rear pseudo-suspension system. IsoSpeed lives on in the bike’s fourth generation, and it’s not only more cleverly package than ever, but it’s housed in what is clearly the most performance-packed iteration to date. 

The last few months have proven the latest Domane SLR to be a formidable competitor in the hotly contested all-road market. But part of me wonders if some of the earlier versions’ approachability has been lost in the never-ending quest for more speed, and there are a couple of disconcerting missteps that proved annoying during testing, and somewhat concerning for the long haul, too.

A primer on the latest Domane

IsoSpeed has defined the Domane since its inception, and the brilliance and elegance of its design still has no equal in the industry. 

Most bikes offer rear-end comfort with a combination of seatpost and seat tube flex; that phenomenon has been well understood for quite some time. But by adding a physical pivot at the seat cluster, IsoSpeed allows the seatpost and seat tube to bend far more under bump loads than with a more typically rigid connection. Later iterations of IsoSpeed would introduce a level of adjustability to the system so that riders could more carefully fine-tune the ride quality to their preferences (and weight), and Trek would eventually introduce a front-end analog to help balance out the comfort level between the two ends.

Whereas the previous Domane’s rear IsoSpeed system had an adjustable spring rate that allowed riders to tweak the flex characteristics to their liking, this latest version has a fixed tune that Trek says is roughly the same as the old version’s softest setting (since that’s apparently where most people ran it, anyway). The change yields a more neatly visually integrated and appealing arrangement since all of the flexy bits are now entirely tucked away inside the top tube. 

In addition, there are big changes with the seatpost – or rather that it has one at all. Up until now, all higher-end Domanes used Trek’s so-called no-cut seatmast design, with a carbon fiber cap or seatpost stub that clamped to an extended seat tube stub. According to Trek, that was only way to get as much flex from the system as its designers wanted. However, this latest L-shaped IsoSpeed architecture allows for all of the desired flex while using a more conventional (and far more convenient) telescoping seatpost.

But what happened to Front IsoSpeed, you’re wondering? Based on steerer tube flex, that system was never as effective as the corresponding rear design, and with the move from standard 28 mm-wide tires to 32 mm-wide ones, the added air volume supposedly cancels out Front IsoSpeed’s nominal comfort gains so Trek says there wasn’t any point in using it anymore. 

As you might expect, those structural simplifications result in some healthy weight savings, which is more than welcome since the third-gen Domane wasn’t exactly light. According to Trek, the fourth-generation Domane frameset sheds about 300 g (0.66 lb). Claimed weight for a painted 56 cm frame is 1,193 g, and the matching fork adds another 427 g – still not exactly feathery, but not bad at all, particularly when you consider all of that IsoSpeed hardware hidden inside.

Nevertheless, that figure becomes a little more palatable when you consider everything else that comes along with it.

As before, the Domane sports nominally aero tube shaping, although it’s more pronounced now with more aggressively flat-backed profiles that presumably cut through the air with greater efficiency. Trek has also retained the convenient storage hatch in the down tube located under the bottle cage mount, with plenty of room for snacks and repair essentials, and even perhaps a layer or two depending on how carefully you pack. 

The previous generation’s semi-concealed cable routing has been more refined this time around with a fully hidden setup that enters the frame through the upper headset bearing and tucks in against the steerer tube, instead of the separate port behind the stem and more exposed cabling used on the old Domane. Headset bearing replacements will still be a pain (more on this in a bit), but thankfully, those control lines are at least run along the underside of the bar and stem – not through them – so swapping either of those components will be a mostly trivial process measured in minutes instead of hours.

Tire clearance is officially unchanged, although that’s not a big deal considering it was already very good. Trek says just about any 700c tire with a 38 mm hot stamp on it will fit, and prior experience has not only demonstrated those claims to hold true, but that they’re often pretty conservative. Thoroughly hidden front and rear fender mounts are integrated into the frame and fork, and even with those installed, you can supposedly still fit 700×35 mm tires underneath without any trouble. 

Geometry-wise, it’s an interesting mix of road racer agility and endurance bike stability.

Up front, the steering is almost as quick as the Madone – quicker in some sizes, in fact – although that’s tempered somewhat by the more stretched-out rear end and longer wheelbase. And in a clear nod to stability, the bottom bracket drop is a ground-scraping 75-80 mm as compared to the Madone’s 68-72 mm figure. As expected, the rider position is more relaxed than what Trek uses on its road racing bikes, with more upright stack and shorter reach dimensions across the board. Neither is remotely extreme, though, so most riders shouldn’t have much issue achieving a reasonably aggressive position should they want one.

Trek sent to me a flagship Domane SLR 9 eTap model to test, built with the company’s fanciest 800-series OCLV carbon fiber blend, a SRAM Red eTap AXS wireless electronic groupset, and speedy Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 aero carbon clinchers wrapped with 32 mm-wide Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tires. Completing the spec sheet are a carbon-railed Bontrager Verse Short Pro saddle and a Bontrager Pro IsoCore carbon fiber handlebar.

Actual weight for my 52 cm sample is 7.54 kg (16.62 lb) without pedals or accessories, and retail price is a heady US$13,200 / AU$18,500 / £13,400 / €14,500.

Still dominant?

I think I’ve ridden every generation of Domane at this point, and have always been struck by its unusually smooth ride quality (at least out back). Simply put, IsoSpeed works just as it’s claimed to, and the extent of its effectiveness is something that can only be fully appreciated in person.

That still carries through to this fourth-generation model, although the overall feel isn’t the same as in years past.

The rear end is still astonishingly comfortable, and far more so than you’d expect given the chunky-looking chain- and seatstays. Smaller-amplitude stuff is wiped out almost completely, and even nastier square-edged impacts are impressively neutralized. Basically, the way you ride IsoSpeed is to stay seated on just about everything and let the bike do the work for you. There’s also an admirable lack of bounciness while pedaling, and yet despite the obvious flex in the system, I was surprised by the amount of (good) textural feedback coming up through the rear end. Mind you, it’s nowhere near as as talkative as many other bikes out there, but it’s an acceptable tradeoff for the cushiness.

Despite losing the Front IsoSpeed system, this new Domane also strikes me as more balanced than before. The rear end is still more comfortable than the front – as has been the case with every Domane since its inception – but it’s not as stark a contrast as it used to be most of the time. I can’t say if this is due to the larger stock tires (which I ran at just 52/54 psi front/rear for my 73 kg build) or the semi-flexy Bontrager IsoCore carbon handlebar, but either way, ditching the weight and complication of the Front IsoSpeed system is a welcome update.

I say “most of the time”, though, because while the Domane does feel more balanced to me on tarmac, the huge down tube, top tube, and head tube proportions make for an absolutely punishing experience if you hit anything remotely substantial. Whereas that rear IsoSpeed setup can just flex more when needed, there’s no such relief up front, and huge jolts come up through your hands if you’re not paying attention and slam into something at speed.

Overall, the impression I get is this latest-generation Domane has a sportier personality to it and it no longer seems content to just be a comfy endurance road bike. Instead, it’s looking to provide a lot of comfort to riders who want to be out all day, but who also aren’t willing to completely give up a more performance-minded feel.

Whether that’s a good thing will depend on your perspective, but it’s something to keep in mind regardless.

Sticking to that whole performance front, the new Domane is indeed very eager under power. As you’d expect given the proportions of the thing, it’s very stiff and efficient-feeling when you step on the gas, with nary a hint of flex down below. It’s a similar story up front with that huge head tube area confidently resisting any undue twisting when you rise out of the saddle for a sprint or steep uphill pitch. 

The Domane’s diet plan has paid dividends, too. Granted, 7.54 kg is still a touch on the heavy side for a top-tier carbon fiber road bike with a SRAM Red eTap AXS groupset and shallow carbon fiber clinchers, but it’s a sizable improvement nonetheless and more than fair given everything Trek has packed in here. That rear end genuinely does ride better than just about anything else out there, and while the down tube storage hatch undoubtedly adds a few grams, I’d argue it’s more than offset by the convenience factor. 

Put another way, I never finished a test ride complaining about the bike’s weight.

Nor did I have any complaints whatsoever about the Domane’s handling. The quick steering geometry may seem odd for a bike in this category, but it does work. The Domane feels agile and nimble, and eagerly turns into corner when asked. After that initial response, though, that more stretched-out rear end and the longer wheelbase work together to slow things down so you never feel like you’re diving too hard toward the apex; just initiate the turn and let the tires take a set, then carve your way through. It’s wonderfully intuitive.

A bike and a half

The official tire clearance figures naturally raise the question of if the Domane can also serve as a light-duty gravel bike. In short: absolutely. In fact, that’s how I ended up spending much of my time on this thing.

As is typical for Trek, those clearance figures are rather conservative, and a set of 40 mm-wide Schwalbe G-One Allrounds (39 mm actual width on these Bontrager rims) went on with no issues whatsoever. Although some people might not be fully comfortable with how close things start to get to the SRAM front derailleur battery, there’s room to spare everywhere else. Assuming conditions aren’t too muddy, I suspect most people wouldn’t have any problems.

Either way, the Domane proved to be right at home on dirt roads and smoother gravel stretches. That somewhat firm ride on the road tires smoothes out with the increased air volume of the gravel ones, and the longer wheelbase lends an air of confidence when you start sliding around a bit. The more road-like frame geometry also makes for a bit of a rally car feel in terms of handling on loose surfaces, and while some might interpret that as scary, more skilled riders will likely just find it to be a lot of fun. 

A Domane wouldn’t be my first choice if you’re primarily looking for a gravel bike, but if you’re after more of a mixed-terrain rig or your “gravel” is more like a network of decently maintained dirt roads, I’d certainly consider it.

As much as Trek nailed a lot of the fundamentals here, I was surprised by how many issues I encountered with my test sample.

For one, that IsoSpeed system may be super cushy, but mine also creaked incessantly. In fact, it was so loud on bigger bumps that it almost seemed like the frame was coming apart. Going along with that was persistent seatpost slipping, which I was only able to (mostly) remedy with a generous helping of friction paste and by slightly over-torquing the binder wedge. Trek says this is a known issue with bikes from early production runs and simple to fix.

“This is a known issue as we discovered supply wasn’t making it to spec. We have since made changes to compensate for the manufacturing variations. If this happens to a customer, we direct them to a local Trek dealer who can easily/quickly swap out the new, correct part for free and get them back riding on the road without the issue.”

Regular CyclingTips readers will already know I’m no fan of fully internal cable routing, although the setup Trek uses here is worthy of some light praise. The lines don’t actually go through the bar or stem, so both are blissfully easy to swap if necessary. And as compared to the layout of the previous-generation Domane, this one looks way cleaner.

That said, headset bearing replacement is still a concern with any routing setup where the lines pass through the upper bearing. Of course, that’s only a problem when it comes time to replace the bearing. But unfortunately, that’ll likely be a more frequent job given that this upper bearing is almost completely exposed to the elements (and the lower one isn’t much better). As is the case with any bike that has a similar layout, replacing headset bearings often requires new brake hoses (or at least fittings), new bar tape, and a lot of labor, so if you regularly ride in the wet and are considering a Domane, I’d advise either setting aside a sizable chunk of money for regular bike shop visits or getting really good at doing the work yourself. 

“The logic behind the design is that we’ve noticed we infrequently see our customers change their headsets,” a representative from Trek replied when I asked about this. “We’ve also seen very few related issues. For example, for all our road bikes dating back to 2013 with similar integration as Domane, we’ve received approximately ten warranty issues related to this.”

That may very well be, but just because customers don’t change their headset bearings doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be changed, and just because something isn’t submitted for a warranty claim doesn’t mean there isn’t a maintenance issue inherent to the design. Would it really be that hard to add a couple of lip seals here?

I may not win the war on hidden cable routing (sadly, that ship has sailed), but I’m still going to scream from the rooftops that brands should at least pair those rats’ nests with either more durable headset bearings or better seals. In this case, there’s neither.

Speaking of internal routing, I also noticed the rear brake hose rubbing inside the frame when turning the bars at not-overly-extreme angles. Will this be an issue over time? That’s hard to say, but most experienced shop mechanics will probably have tales to share of brake and derailleur lines slowly sawing through poorly protected areas of various mountain bike carbon fiber frames over the years. I can’t say for sure that this will happen here – and this certainly isn’t an issue limited to Trek – but it’s something I worry about regardless, particularly given it’s potentially inside the frame where no one will be regularly looking for it. 

This particular test bike was also a convenient reminder that threaded bottom brackets can still creak, as mine occasionally did under particularly hard pedaling. That said, threaded systems are at least easy to fix (a layer of plumber’s tape and some grease does wonders) – and I would have, had one of the dozen cup tools in my tool cabinet actually fit. 

For the most part, there aren’t too many surprises here. 

The SRAM Red eTap AXS stuff is great, and Trek has wisely gone with the versatile 2x configuration with 46/33T chainrings and a 10-33T cassette that provides a mountain-taming 1:1 climbing ratio. 

The Bontrager wheels are excellent: light and snappy, modestly aero, super stable in crosswinds, incredibly easy to set up tubeless, reliable DT Swiss hub internals. You get the point.

I can’t say I was a fan of the Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tires wrapped around them, though. They’re decently grippy, and prior experience has demonstrated them to be impressively long-lasting. But they’re also tangibly slow (confirmed by our friends at Bicycle Rolling Resistance ) with a thick and stiff casing that makes for a less-than-inspiring ride quality. The bike deserves better.

It was a similarly mixed bag on the finishing kit.

That Bontrager Verse Short Pro saddle? Awesome. Tons of support for all-day riding and an excellent shape that minimized soft-tissue pressure and chafing. I’d almost put this head-to-head with a Specialized Power, in fact. It’s good stuff.

But that handlebar… pass (at least for me). I generally love traditional-bend bars, but this one just never felt right in my hands. The 75 mm reach dimension should be fine but it feels short in reality, and the drops feel oddly deep with a curvature that doesn’t mesh well with my large-sized palms. And the corresponding tape was pleasantly grippy, but almost too grippy if you don’t like to wear gloves, and could’ve used more padding. 

Details matter

Overall, I think Trek did a great job on the core attributes of this fourth-generation Domane. It’s back to a more reasonable weight after a couple of generations of overindulgence, it’s very unusually comfortable, the handling is superb, and it’s no stranger to going fast. The convenience of those double fender mounts and the extra bottle and bag mounts – not to mention the down tube storage – are big plusses, too. 

In short, it’s a lovely bike to ride all day, and on a wide range of road surfaces.

Bikes are more than just short-term thrills, though, and the creaking and slipping in the seatpost area, the exposed headset bearing, and that internal brake hose rub just make me wonder about what issues might persist long-term. I’ve heard from Trek dealers that a retrofittable part revision has since corrected the seatpost problem, but those other two concerns still give me pause. If Trek can address those as well, I’d happily declare this Domane a winner. But until then, I’d carefully wear the pros and cons before plunking down your wallet on this one.

More information can be found at www.trekbikes.com .

Popular on Velo

\n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/how-watch-unbound-gravel-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"how to follow the 2024 unbound gravel race live\"}}\u0027>\n how to follow the 2024 unbound gravel race live\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"what will red bull-bora-hansgrohe look like blue kits but no pidcock, van aert for incoming mega-team","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/what-will-red-bull-bora-hansgrohe-look-like-blue-kits-but-no-pidcock-van-aert-for-incoming-mega-team\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/what-will-red-bull-bora-hansgrohe-look-like-blue-kits-but-no-pidcock-van-aert-for-incoming-mega-team\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"what will red bull-bora-hansgrohe look like blue kits but no pidcock, van aert for incoming mega-team\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/what-will-red-bull-bora-hansgrohe-look-like-blue-kits-but-no-pidcock-van-aert-for-incoming-mega-team\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"what will red bull-bora-hansgrohe look like blue kits but no pidcock, van aert for incoming mega-team\"}}\u0027>\n what will red bull-bora-hansgrohe look like blue kits but no pidcock, van aert for incoming mega-team\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"fourth time\u0027s the charm for lachlan morton at unbound gravel 2024","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/results-lachlan-morton-2024-unbound-gravel\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/results-lachlan-morton-2024-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"fourth time\u0027s the charm for lachlan morton at unbound gravel 2024\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/results-lachlan-morton-2024-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"fourth time\u0027s the charm for lachlan morton at unbound gravel 2024\"}}\u0027>\n fourth time\u0027s the charm for lachlan morton at unbound gravel 2024\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"velo\u0027s 2024 unbound gravel elite race predictions","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/2024-unbound-gravel-elite-race-predictions\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/2024-unbound-gravel-elite-race-predictions\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"velo\u0027s 2024 unbound gravel elite race predictions\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/2024-unbound-gravel-elite-race-predictions\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"velo\u0027s 2024 unbound gravel elite race predictions\"}}\u0027>\n velo\u0027s 2024 unbound gravel elite race predictions\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"f1 driver valtteri bottas spotted riding an unreleased canyon road bike","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/f1-driver-valtteri-bottas-spotted-riding-an-unreleased-canyon-road-bike\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/f1-driver-valtteri-bottas-spotted-riding-an-unreleased-canyon-road-bike\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"f1 driver valtteri bottas spotted riding an unreleased canyon road bike\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/f1-driver-valtteri-bottas-spotted-riding-an-unreleased-canyon-road-bike\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"f1 driver valtteri bottas spotted riding an unreleased canyon road bike\"}}\u0027>\n f1 driver valtteri bottas spotted riding an unreleased canyon road bike\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"tom pidcock went on a 140-mile recovery ride after winning the nov\u00e9 m\u011bsto\u00a0world cup","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-culture\/tom-pidcock-went-on-a-140-mile-recovery-ride-after-winning-the-nove-mesto-world-cup\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-culture\/tom-pidcock-went-on-a-140-mile-recovery-ride-after-winning-the-nove-mesto-world-cup\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tom pidcock went on a 140-mile recovery ride after winning the nov\u00e9 m\u011bsto\u00a0world cup\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-culture\/tom-pidcock-went-on-a-140-mile-recovery-ride-after-winning-the-nove-mesto-world-cup\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tom pidcock went on a 140-mile recovery ride after winning the nov\u00e9 m\u011bsto\u00a0world cup\"}}\u0027>\n tom pidcock went on a 140-mile recovery ride after winning the nov\u00e9 m\u011bsto\u00a0world cup\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"sepp kuss on tour de france gc: \u2018my best chance to win is if jonas vingegaard is there\u2019","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/sepp-kuss-on-tour-de-france-gc-my-best-chance-to-win-is-if-jonas-is-there\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/sepp-kuss-on-tour-de-france-gc-my-best-chance-to-win-is-if-jonas-is-there\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"sepp kuss on tour de france gc: \u2018my best chance to win is if jonas vingegaard is there\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/sepp-kuss-on-tour-de-france-gc-my-best-chance-to-win-is-if-jonas-is-there\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"sepp kuss on tour de france gc: \u2018my best chance to win is if jonas vingegaard is there\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n sepp kuss on tour de france gc: \u2018my best chance to win is if jonas vingegaard is there\u2019\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"unbound updates: fat tires are in, aero number plates are out, and drafting is still allowed (for women)","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-updates\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-updates\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unbound updates: fat tires are in, aero number plates are out, and drafting is still allowed (for women)\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-updates\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unbound updates: fat tires are in, aero number plates are out, and drafting is still allowed (for women)\"}}\u0027>\n unbound updates: fat tires are in, aero number plates are out, and drafting is still allowed (for women)\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"rosa kl\u00f6ser wins historic nine-woman sprint at unbound gravel 2024","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-womens-results\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-womens-results\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rosa kl\u00f6ser wins historic nine-woman sprint at unbound gravel 2024\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-2024-womens-results\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rosa kl\u00f6ser wins historic nine-woman sprint at unbound gravel 2024\"}}\u0027>\n rosa kl\u00f6ser wins historic nine-woman sprint at unbound gravel 2024\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"lael wilcox just left chicago on the longest ride of her life","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/lael-wilcox-guinness-world-record-around-the-world\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/lael-wilcox-guinness-world-record-around-the-world\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"lael wilcox just left chicago on the longest ride of her life\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/lael-wilcox-guinness-world-record-around-the-world\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"lael wilcox just left chicago on the longest ride of her life\"}}\u0027>\n lael wilcox just left chicago on the longest ride of her life\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"\u2018we are going to stick with road racing\u2019: bad luck undoes matej mohori\u010d in unbound gravel","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/we-are-going-to-stick-with-road-racing-bad-luck-undoes-matej-mohoric-in-unbound-gravel\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/we-are-going-to-stick-with-road-racing-bad-luck-undoes-matej-mohoric-in-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018we are going to stick with road racing\u2019: bad luck undoes matej mohori\u010d in unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/we-are-going-to-stick-with-road-racing-bad-luck-undoes-matej-mohoric-in-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018we are going to stick with road racing\u2019: bad luck undoes matej mohori\u010d in unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n \u2018we are going to stick with road racing\u2019: bad luck undoes matej mohori\u010d in unbound gravel\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"the rapha blaero project takes aero clothing at unbound to a whole new level","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/the-rapha-blaero-project-takes-aero-clothing-at-unbound-to-a-whole-new-level\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/the-rapha-blaero-project-takes-aero-clothing-at-unbound-to-a-whole-new-level\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"the rapha blaero project takes aero clothing at unbound to a whole new level\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/the-rapha-blaero-project-takes-aero-clothing-at-unbound-to-a-whole-new-level\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"the rapha blaero project takes aero clothing at unbound to a whole new level\"}}\u0027>\n the rapha blaero project takes aero clothing at unbound to a whole new level\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"who could fill a visma leadership void, is there really a gc \u0027big 4\u0027, and more: what the dauphin\u00e9 will tell us about the tour de france","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/criterium-du-dauphine-could-kuss-fill-in-for-visma-at-the-tour\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/criterium-du-dauphine-could-kuss-fill-in-for-visma-at-the-tour\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"who could fill a visma leadership void, is there really a gc \u0027big 4\u0027, and more: what the dauphin\u00e9 will tell us about the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/criterium-du-dauphine-could-kuss-fill-in-for-visma-at-the-tour\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"who could fill a visma leadership void, is there really a gc \u0027big 4\u0027, and more: what the dauphin\u00e9 will tell us about the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n who could fill a visma leadership void, is there really a gc \u0027big 4\u0027, and more: what the dauphin\u00e9 will tell us about the tour de france\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"opinion: ineos grenadiers under pressure to deliver tour de france home run","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/opinion-ineos-grenadiers-under-pressure-to-deliver-tour-de-france-home-run\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/opinion-ineos-grenadiers-under-pressure-to-deliver-tour-de-france-home-run\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: ineos grenadiers under pressure to deliver tour de france home run\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/opinion-ineos-grenadiers-under-pressure-to-deliver-tour-de-france-home-run\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: ineos grenadiers under pressure to deliver tour de france home run\"}}\u0027>\n opinion: ineos grenadiers under pressure to deliver tour de france home run\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"opinion: 5 reasons why tadej poga\u010dar will win the tour de france","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/opinion-5-reasons-why-tadej-pogacar-will-win-the-tour-de-france\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/opinion-5-reasons-why-tadej-pogacar-will-win-the-tour-de-france\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: 5 reasons why tadej poga\u010dar will win the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/opinion-5-reasons-why-tadej-pogacar-will-win-the-tour-de-france\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: 5 reasons why tadej poga\u010dar will win the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n opinion: 5 reasons why tadej poga\u010dar will win the tour de france\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"bike check: lael wilcox\u0027s around-the-world specialized roubaix","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bike-check-lael-wilcoxs-around-the-world-specialized-roubaix\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bike-check-lael-wilcoxs-around-the-world-specialized-roubaix\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bike check: lael wilcox\u0027s around-the-world specialized roubaix\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bike-check-lael-wilcoxs-around-the-world-specialized-roubaix\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bike check: lael wilcox\u0027s around-the-world specialized roubaix\"}}\u0027>\n bike check: lael wilcox\u0027s around-the-world specialized roubaix\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"\u2018we make a winning plan every day:\u2019 coach says vingegaard is pulling out all stops to be ready for the tour de france","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/we-make-a-winning-plan-every-day-coach-says-vingegaard-is-pulling-out-all-stops-to-be-ready-for-the-tour-de-france\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/we-make-a-winning-plan-every-day-coach-says-vingegaard-is-pulling-out-all-stops-to-be-ready-for-the-tour-de-france\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018we make a winning plan every day:\u2019 coach says vingegaard is pulling out all stops to be ready for the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-de-france\/we-make-a-winning-plan-every-day-coach-says-vingegaard-is-pulling-out-all-stops-to-be-ready-for-the-tour-de-france\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018we make a winning plan every day:\u2019 coach says vingegaard is pulling out all stops to be ready for the tour de france\"}}\u0027>\n \u2018we make a winning plan every day:\u2019 coach says vingegaard is pulling out all stops to be ready for the tour de france\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"power analysis: poga\u010dar\u2019s giro d\u2019italia domination was like nothing in recent memory","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/power-analysis-pogacars-giro-ditalia-domination-was-like-nothing-in-recent-memory\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/power-analysis-pogacars-giro-ditalia-domination-was-like-nothing-in-recent-memory\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: poga\u010dar\u2019s giro d\u2019italia domination was like nothing in recent memory\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/power-analysis-pogacars-giro-ditalia-domination-was-like-nothing-in-recent-memory\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: poga\u010dar\u2019s giro d\u2019italia domination was like nothing in recent memory\"}}\u0027>\n power analysis: poga\u010dar\u2019s giro d\u2019italia domination was like nothing in recent memory\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"unreleased 13-speed sram xplr drivetrain spotted at unbound gravel","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/new-13-speed-sram-xplr-drivetrain-spotted-at-unbound-gravel\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/new-13-speed-sram-xplr-drivetrain-spotted-at-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unreleased 13-speed sram xplr drivetrain spotted at unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/new-13-speed-sram-xplr-drivetrain-spotted-at-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unreleased 13-speed sram xplr drivetrain spotted at unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n unreleased 13-speed sram xplr drivetrain spotted at unbound gravel\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"unbound, the \u0027world\u0027s premiere gravel event,\u0027 doesn\u0027t have prize money. should it","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-prize-money\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-prize-money\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unbound, the \u0027world\u0027s premiere gravel event,\u0027 doesn\u0027t have prize money. should it\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/unbound-gravel-prize-money\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"unbound, the \u0027world\u0027s premiere gravel event,\u0027 doesn\u0027t have prize money. should it\"}}\u0027>\n unbound, the \u0027world\u0027s premiere gravel event,\u0027 doesn\u0027t have prize money. should it\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "}]' > >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>advertise >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>privacy policy >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>contact >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>careers >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>terms of use >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>site map >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>my newsletters manage cookie preferences privacy request healthy living.

• Clean Eating
• Vegetarian Times
• Yoga Journal
• Fly Fishing Film Tour
• National Park Trips
• Warren Miller
• Fastest Known Time
• Trail Runner
• Women's Running
• Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• FinisherPix
• Outside Events Cycling Series
• Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

Best road bikes 2024: top reviewed bikes from our testing

We choose the best road bikes we've ridden, from budget models to grand tour-proven race machines

• Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

• ENTRY LEVEL
• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best for speed
• 3. Best value
• 4. Best for versatility
• 2. Best value
• 3. Best aero superbike
• 4. Best lightweight superbike
• HOW TO CHOOSE

Meet the testers

How we test, best road bikes 2024: jump menu.

The list in brief ↴ 1. Best entry-level overall 2. Best entry-level for racing 3. Best entry-level for value 4. Best for versatility 5. Best superbike overall 6. Best superbike for value 7. Best aero superbike 8. Best climbing superbike How to choose How we test

Buying a new road bike isn't a simple task. The category today is full to the brim, with plenty of options for most budgets. The sheer number of bikes in your price bracket might leave you feeling spoilt for choice, if not a little confused. But we're here to help.

We've tested hundreds of road bikes, from entry level options ideally suited to road-riding newbies to superbikes, ridden on the pro tour and often coming with a five-figure price tag. By riding across such a range, we're well placed to understand the many nuances that dominate this sector of the market. And more importantly, we can guide you through the many elements that help define a bike's ride quality, from frame material to tube shapes to components.

If your budget sits at either end end of the scale, you can also check out our guide to best cheap road bikes as well as our Race Bike of the Year (RBOTY) 2023 awards, some of which feature here. Likewise if you're after more of an all-road machine, you can read our guide to the best gravel bikes . Otherwise read on for our picks of the best road bikes for 2024.

The quick list

Best entry-level overall

The Allez is now into it's fifth decade, with the latest model right on trend with disc brakes and bags of tire clearance. Sensible geometry makes for a comfy ride, too.

Read more below

Best entry-level for racing

Yes you can race alloy! In this CAAD13 guise it's light and stiff but not harsh, delivering a ride that easily matches lower price carbon options.

Best entry-level for value

If you're drawn to long rides that place an emphasis on comfort, the Contend SL1 is good match with plenty of rear end compliance and a great spec to match.

Best superbike overall 

A grand tour winner, the S5 is racing thoroughbred. Aerodynamic with sublime handling yet still comfortable for longer distances, aided by wider tire clearance. 

Best value superbike

Giant typically delivers lots of bike for your money, and the latest Propel is no different, especially on the lower priced models.  

Best aero superbike

A radical frameset with IsoFlow tech and a freshly designed aero cockpit makes the new Madone distinctive. It also makes it very fast.

Best road bikes we’ve tested at Cycling Weekly

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The entry level

The best entry-level road bike overall.

The Specialized Allez now has disc brakes and extra tire clearance

1. Specialized Allez

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Specialized's 2023 update of the Allez has added disc brakes in place of the rim brakes on the older model. That has allowed it to increase tire clearance to a more substantial 35mm or 32mm with mudguards. That in turn has provided an extra dose of comfort to the ride and means that the new Allez can handle light gravel duties and isn't confined to smoother tarmac. 

We enjoyed this new found versatility when testing - and it even has rack mounts should you fancy throwing in some touring or commuting as well. Vitally though the Allez has still manage to retain its sporty profile, and with a slammed stem in place, we found it to be fast and playful companion.

The base model bike has Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes. Claris has big jumps between gear ratios on the 11-32t cassette, while we found that , as expected, the mechanical disc brakes just don't have the stopping power of hydraulics.

The Allez line-up now consists of just two models (plus the Allez Sprint ). The higher spec Allez Sport has ten speeds and hydraulic disc brakes, but there's a big jump in price for what's otherwise the same spec as the base model.

A wheelset upgrade would significantly improve performance, but all in all it's a decent package for the price, making the Allez reasonably competitive against the other best cheap road bikes we've reviewed.

Read more: Specialized Allez first ride review

The best entry-level road bike for racing

Cannondale is a master of alloy bike frame fabrication

2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105

Cannondale has long been a master of performance alloy frames and the CAAD13 follows in that vein. It's fairly long and low geometry is based on that of the pro-level carbon SuperSix EVO - in fact it shares the same stack height and reach numbers, with a 54 size equating to a stack height of 55.5cm and a reach of 38.4cm. 

The aero tube profiles are also borrowed from the WorldTour bike and we found that the combination resulted in superb handling as well as a smooth ride - one that we felt closely resembled that of a carbon frameset. Granted we tested a high-spec model with decent wheels and tires that certainly didn't hinder the experience as some entry level components somehow can.

However, at the lower price points the CAAD13 is affordable enough to be a first bike but with a frame that you won't outgrow - and one that we believe warrants any significant upgrades you make, whether it be wheels or groupset.

That said, even if you opt for a 'cheaper' model you can get a Shimano 105 hydraulic groupset with a RS510 crank set, while the wheels match DT Swiss R470 rims with the Formula hubs - all perfectly good kit. Below this in the pecking order is a Tiagra equipped offering, while rim brake fans will pleased to know that you can get the CAAD13 with calipers!

As per usual, the size range starts at 44 and goes all the way up to 62, with six sizes inbetween. We see this as another big plus point for the CAAD13, making it available not only to a range of budgets thanks to the build options but also wide range of rider builds.

The only thing that we found fault with was the rather high front end stack. It's easy to rectify but means you'll have to have your head tube cut down to avoid an ugly stack of spacers above the stem. 

Read more: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc full review

The best entry-level road bike for value

The Giant Contend SL1 is a quality entry-level option

3. Giant Contend SL1

Sharing features of Giant’s more expensive bikes, the Contend has a compact alloy frame with a sloping top tube. The D-Fuse seatpost and carbon fork are designed to add compliance at the rear and the front end respectively. Along with the endurance frame geometry this gives great comfort and handling, letting you ride for longer and inspiring confidence. 

We were particularly impressed with the bike's ability to eat up the road chatter, which isn't always the case with aluminium frames. Combine this with the sensible geometry (a longer wheelbase for stability and higher stack) and wide tire clearance (room for 34mm) and you get a set-up that sits squarely in the endurance category, ready to eat up the miles in comfort. For an entry level bike we feel it's the right recipe, one that's better suited to a wider range of riders than a more aggressive riding position.

The Contend SL hasn't been updated for a little while but you can still get both a rim and disc brake option. Both use's Shimano's impeccable 105 groupset with a Shimano RS510 chainset, with the rim brakes using Tektro calipers and the disc brake option fitted with 105 hydraulic.

Again befitting both the entry-level and endurance tags, there's bags of low gearing, down to 1:1, to tackle uphills and Shimano 105 gives you quality shifting as always. Naturally at this price point it's not the lightest bike by any means, which we found didn't always make for sprightly performance. That said, It's a good value proposition for its price and a genuine 'contender' for any entry-level road bike prize out there.

Read more: Giant Contend full review

The best road bike for versatility

The Vitus Venon Evo is available in road or gravel specs

4. Vitus Venon Evo-RS

While versatility has always been desirable for some of us when shopping for a new road bike, the evolution of the category has seen more and more sub-sections emerge. The result is a slew of bikes designed with specifics in mind, whether it be aero race machines or featherweight climbers. 

But Vitus has decided to buck the trend somewhat. And the Venon Evo has a trick up its sleeve to make it a bike for more than one purpose. With its wide tire clearance of 45mm it's not glued to the road and you can buy the same frame specced out for gravel duties, with a series of models with a GR suffix; we've also reviewed the Vitus Venon Evo-GR gravel spec bike.

The carbon frame weighs under 1kg and we found that it had plenty of compliance built in. The road-going specs are fitted with Michelin Power Cup 28mm tubeless tires on Prime Attaquer alloy wheels. We tested the 105 Di2 model of the Vitus Venon Evo, but there's a whole range of electronic and mechanical groupset options from Shimano and SRAM. 

When reviewing the bike on the road, we found the  ride to be well balanced and firm but still really comfortable. Continuing the versatile theme, there's plenty of room to fit mudguards on the hidden mounts, making the Venon Evo a good option for year-round use.

Read more: Vitus Venon Evo-RS full review

Superbikes: Overall winner

The Cervélo S5 mixes a fast, aero ride with comfort and handling

1. Cervélo S5

The Cervélo S5 garnered top spot in our Race Bike of the Year awards in 2023. We rated its straight line speed, but also its cornering ability and superb ride quality. It's the handling that sets it apart from other aero bikes though: fast to respond to a change of line but never twitchy.

Likewise, we were impressed with the Reserve wheels, which are 52mm deep at the front and 63mm deep at the rear. Their internal width of 24.4mm really helped to add comfort to the tires (they plumped up our 28mm Vittoiria Corsa to over 31mm)  as well as progression when cornering and additional grip.

If there is any downside to the S5 then it the weight: it's not the lightest bike, tipping the scales at over 8kg. This makes it around 1kg heavier than the Scott Foil for example. But again the sheer ride quality of the S5 manages to negate any additional grams on even moderately steep gradients.

Naturally superbikes are primarily designed with the pros in minds and if you want some validation of the bike's qualities then how about 2022 and 2023 Tour de France yellow jersey wins, the TdF green jersey in 2022 and a slew of one day race triumphs? While these wins are testament to the talent of Jonas Vingegaard, Wout van Aert and others, they also point to the S5s ability to be ridden across a range of stages and races. For us, this only confirms what we felt when riding the bike - that it's as well-rounded a race bike as you'll find.

Read more: Cervélo S5 full review

Superbikes: Best value

The Giant Propel offers a lot of bike for its price

2. Giant Propel

The latest Giant Propel has slimmed down from its previous chunky frameset, to reduce weight and increase comfort, but according to the brand has still improved aerodynamics over the outgoing model - to the tune of some 6 .2 watts at 40kph.

Adjustability has improved too thanks to a newly designed two-piece bar and stem, without impacting those aero number.The cables are neatly routed through the bars and under the channelled-out stem before entering the frame. It makes for a slick looking bike indeed.

Giant has also adjusted the Propel's geometry, so that it's much closer to its TCR climbing bike, for a more responsive ride. Maximum tyre clearance sits at 32mm. We found that it all added up to a fast yet stable ride, with the thinner tubes performing better in crosswinds than aero bikes with deeper sections. We were impressed with the comfort levels too, with the plumper tires and well-designed front end helping to negate road chatter.

Although we tested the Rival AXS build, best value can be found in the entry level bike which easily beats the other bikes in our Race Bike of the Year awards.

Read more: Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 full review

Superbikes: Best aero bike

The Trek Madone SL7 is very aero

3. Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7

Another bike that's shed weight, in its case 300g. The Gen 7 does this in large part by andoning the IsoSpeed system of its predecessor, and replacing it with IsoFlow technology. It makes for a striking looking frame, with its hole under the saddle, which sits on a seatpost cantilevered over the rear of the frame.

But that's only half of the 20 watts saving over the older Madone. The other half comes from the bars, which position the hands 30mm closer together on the tops, for a more aero tuck -  for example a 42cm bar actually measures 39cm at the hoods and 42cm at the drops. Trek offers 14 different cockpit combinations to allow you to dial in your position.

We found that it makes for an incredibly assured bike, with great handling and plenty of comfort as well as being a fast ride in a straight line. It's a light by aero bike standards too, with our review model tipping the scales at 7.5kg. Like many superbikes, the downside for most is likely to be the price, and the Madone is certainly firmly in the expensive category - five figures with a second-tier Ultegra groupset.

Read more : Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 full review

Superbikes: Best climbing bike

The Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod is a great bike for climbers

4. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2

This fourth generation of the Cannondale SuperSix has received some subtle updates from its predecessor, which nevertheless make it more aero and lighter. You'll likely notice the more steeply sloped top tube and the lower seat stays. 

Tire clearance has been increased too, and there's now room for up to 34mm in width. Last but not least, the press fit bottom bracket has been replaced by a BSA 68mm threaded number - something we're big fans of not least because it allows you to fit a new BB home with relative ease.  It adds up to a claimed 770g frame weight , which was the lightest in our Race Bike of the Year awards from last year.

We found the latest SuperSix to be better than ever. It's lightening fast and it holds speed well thanks to the 50mm deep aero wheelset. Equally it's a great climber's bike as well, with low weight and great geometry for out-of-saddle efforts. Descending is equally magical.

We did find that comfort was comprised a little over longer distances - it's not as comfy at the Cervélo S5 for example - but this isn't uncommon for stiff, light race bikes.

Cannondal typically do a good job of offering a sensible range of models and prices on offer, and its no exception with SuperSix Evo.

Read more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review

How to choose the best road bike for you

What's the difference between race and endurance geometry.

A key decision when choosing the best road bike for you is what you plan to do with it. Are you looking to go fast or race, or are you after a more comfortable bike for leisurely rides or long days in the saddle?

Geometry is the key factor here. A full-on race bike will put you in a more bent-over riding position, with your head and shoulders lower down over the handlebar. That’s great when you have a need for speed, reducing your frontal profile to lower your wind resistance but can be uncomfortable, particularly for a beginner.

On the other hand, bikes labelled 'endurance' or 'sportive' will be designed for a more upright riding position, with the bars higher and closer to the saddle. That delivers greater comfort on longer rides, but may make you a bit slower.

If you’re riding on hilly roads , or planning a trip abroad to the Alps for example, you’ll certainly appreciate a lightweight bike . However, if you're going to spend your time riding fast on flatter terrain then aerodynamics are probably more important to you. And If you’re looking to race, the stiffer, more edgy handling of a race bike will work better than the more stable handling of an endurance machine .

An increasing number of bikes are designed to take you off the tarmac as well as letting you ride efficiently on road. A gravel bike will give you wide tires and lower gears. But many endurance or 'all-road' bikes now offer plenty of tire clearance as well as an expansive gear range, letting you take in a wider variety of routes.

How much do I need to spend on a road bike?

You also need to look at how much you want to spend on a bike. That’s not just the initial outlay, but the cost of replacing worn or damaged parts, the cost of servicing your bike and the cost of any upgrades. There’s a big difference in price between lower spec mechanical parts and top of the range electronic gearing.

A bike's specs will vary a lot between manufacturers. In particular, prices will often be lower at direct only brands (such as Canyon and Ribble) and in-house brands (Vitus at Wiggle or Boardman at Halfords). But to give you an idea, here's a look at common specifications at various investment levels. In the interest of brevity, some bandings are wide and therefore you would expect variation within them.

£750 - £999 / $1000 - $1500

An aluminium frame and carbon fork, aluminium seatpost and handlebar/stem, shifting at Shimano Sora or Claris level, aluminium wheels. Rim brakes. 

£1000 - £2000 / $1500 - $2500

Either an aluminium frame and carbon fork at around Shimano 105 level, or a carbon frame and fork with shifting at Shimano Tiagra level. Aluminium wheels, seatpost and handlebar/stem. Disc or rim brakes. 

£2000 - £3500 / $2500 - $4000

Carbon frame and fork with Shimano 105 (lower end of budget) or Ultegra (higher end), aluminium or carbon rims, carbon seatpost, aluminium handlebars and stem. Disc brakes should be hydraulic from this price point. Titanium frames are an option.

£3500 - £5000/ $4000 - $6000

Carbon or titanium frame and fork, Shimano Ultegra or SRAM AXS eTap groupset, carbon seatpost, aluminium bar/stem, carbon rims 

£5000 - £10,000 / $6,000 - $12,000

Carbon frame and fork, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red AXS eTap, carbon wheels of 50mm+, carbon bars and stem.

£10,000+ / $12,000+

Accept nothing but the best of everything. Top of the range carbon frame and fork - usually utilising stiffer carbon and therefore fewer layers resulting in lower weight, carbon wheels of 50mm+, one piece carbon bar/stem Shimano Dura-Ace, SRAM Red AXS or Campagnolo Super Record Wireless, power meter as standard.

What are the best frame materials for road bikes?

A major difference between cheaper and more expensive bikes is their frame material . Bikes costing under $/£1000 are typically made of aluminium alloy , with the tubes welded together. It’s a material used in more expensive bikes too and can result in a strong, lightweight machine.

But pricier bikes are usually made of carbon fibre . The fibres give the bike strength and are embedded in a synthetic resin to hold them together. The mix of fibres used and their lay-up determine the bike’s ride feel. More expensive bikes will use more high modulus carbon fibre, which lowers the weight without reducing the bike’s strength.

Titanium is another material used in some more expensive bikes. It’s lightweight, strong and doesn’t rust or fatigue. And you can still find bikes made of steel tubing, which was the traditional framebuilding material. It’s not quite as light as other choices, but robust and gives a distinctive ride feel.

You should also look at what the bike’s fork is made of. Many bikes will have an all-carbon fork or one with carbon fork blades and an alloy steerer. This tends to absorb road bumps well for a more comfortable ride, but you can find alloy or steel forks on some lower priced bikes .

How do I choose the right size road bike for me?

It’s important to get the right size bike . Most bikes come in a range of sizes to fit your stature and bike makers will usually publish a rider’s height range which a bike of a specific size will fit. 

You should feel comfortable seated on your bike and be able to put both feet flat on the ground when standing over the crossbar, without it touching you.

You’ll usually find more detailed frame dimensions listed too, which give you more details of how your bike will fit you. The most important are reach and stack, although they’re a bit complex to interpret. 

In general, the higher the stack number (usually shown in cm or mm) the more upright your riding position will be. If you enjoy a 'taller' riding position then look for a more generous stack height. Equally, a shorter reach will put you closer to the bars, thus in a more upright position. For the most part, race bikes will feature a lower stack height than endurance models. 

To make sure that your bike is set up correctly and to avoid the risk of injury from incorrect fit, it’s well worth getting a professional bike fit . A bike fit will cost some money, although sometimes a bike shop will offer one at a discount or free when you buy a bike. A bike fit will ensure that your saddle and bars are optimally placed for efficient riding. Consider a good fit an investment.

What is an 'aero' road bike and do I need one?

Bike makers push their bikes’ aero credentials, especially on more expensive machines, with claims of wind tunnel testing and time saved. Time was, an aero frameset was significantly heavier than one with the traditional round tubes, but the best aero bikes can now be as light as a non-aero one.

On the other hand, around 80% of the wind resistance comes from the rider , not the bike and those time savings are typically when riding at around 45kph/28mph. Since wind resistance increases as the cube of speed, if you’re riding at half that, you’ll have an eighth of the drag, so all those aero features won’t make a lot of difference.

How many gears should a road bike have?

After the frame, gears are the most important thing to consider when choosing a road bike. Today many top end road bikes will come fitted with 12-speed cassettes. When paired with a double chainring this means you'll have 24 gears. Remember however that some of these gear ratios will be duplicated in certain chainring/cassette combinations.

More affordable road bikes tend to come with fewer gears. These cassette options should range from 8-speed to 10-speed, again most often paired with a double chainset.

As for groupset brands, Shimano gearing is the most common, but the other major options are SRAM and Campagnolo. Shimano’s top end groupsets, Dura-Ace, Ultegra and 105 have a 12-speed cassette, while less expensive bikes may come with 10-speed Tiagra, 9-speed Sora or 8-speed Claris.

SRAM and Campagnolo also offer 12 speeds on their top end road bike groupsets and all three brands offer electronic shifting rather than the mechanical cables used on lower priced ranges.

What are the best gear options for a road bike?

When choosing a new road bike it's important that you think about the gears it comes equipped with. Fortunately if you've already matched your potential bike to the kind of riding you plan on doing, there's a good chance that the gear choice will also be well-suited. 

An out-and-out race bike may come with a more traditional gearing set-up, for example 53/39 tooth chainset paired with an 11-30 tooth cassette. 

However road bikes that fall into the endurance or sportive categories are likely to have a compact chainset, most likely a 50/34, and a cassette that will have 30, 32, 34 or even 36 teeth as the largest option. The lower gears will help you to both tackle steep hills with more ease and generally pedal with a higher cadence . However, this can mean larger gaps between gear ratios.

There are other options out there too. SRAM, for example, now offers its eTap AXS groupsets with 48/35, 46/33 and 43/30t chainsets. Paired with its cassettes starting at 10 teeth, these give similar highest gear ratios to traditional gearing starting at 11 teeth, but greater low-end gear range for easier climbing and less need to shift between chainrings on undulating roads.

Electronic shifting is now a mainstream option on higher spec bikes

Is electronic shifting really better?

While the major groupset brands - Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo - still offer mechanical groupsets, there has been a significant shift towards electronic shifting in recent years. Here a motor shifts the derailleurs between ratios, rather than the traditional cable.

The main electronic systems are Shimano Di2, Campagnolo Wireless and SRAM eTap AXS, which all offer 12 speeds.

There are benefits and drawbacks of both mechanical and electronic options. 

Mechanical components, such as mechs and levers, are generally cheaper and lighter than their electronic counterparts. They are also, for the most part, easier to fix when something goes wrong. 

Electronic gears benefit from reliable shifting. There's no cable tension at play here. If you've suffered a hand injury, the ease of changing gear with the press of a button could be appealing. 

Electronic gearing can be personalised through an app, allowing you, for example, to shift multiple gears seamlessly. However, all this tech doesn't come cheap and complete road bikes fitted with electronic gears will be more expensive. Plus, you've got to remember to charge the batteries.

Are rim or disc brakes best for a road bike?

Disc brakes have largely taken over on road bikes and all but the lowest priced bikes are now in general disc brake only. That said, you can still find rim brake bikes, usually at either end of the price spectrum.

Typically disc brakes give you more consistent braking, whatever the weather conditions, better modulation and greater overall stopping power. On the flip side, they’re heavier than rim brakes, although bike makers have been able to make frames lighter, largely mitigating the extra weight.

Most disc brake bikes use hydraulic calipers, although you can find mechanical disc brakes, usually on cheaper machines. Discs have been creeping down the price range for the last few years, which means it's still likely an option even if your budget is limited.

Disc brakes are a feature of the majority of new road bikes

What is the difference between carbon and alloy wheels?

Road bike wheels are typically 700c size, although the smaller 650b size can be found on some smaller frames. Regardless of size, both are available as carbon or alloy options.

Carbon fibre rims are used on most of the best road bike wheelsets . These rims lower weight and are often deeper, to improve aerodynamics over a shallow wheel. In fact carbon can be produced in a far greater range of shapes, allowing manufacturers to create wheels optimised for a varied range of riding styles. 

Alloy rims are generally cheaper and will feature on many complete road bikes. They are usually heavier than their carbon counterparts although lightweight alloy options are available. 

Wheels are a component where bike makers often look to economise, so a budget wheelset may feature even on an expensive bike. It’s worth considering whether you’ll need to upgrade them to get the best out of your new bike. If you decide to do so, you can always keep the original set for winter riding.

Wider tyres let you reduce tyre pressure, increasing comfort and grip

What is the best tire width for a road bike?

There was a time when tire options for road bikes were limited by the frames they were fitted to. A 23mm tire was commonplace. If you were lucky you might be able to squeeze a 25mm into your frame.

However, today road bikes now come with increasingly wide tires due largely to the advent of disc brakes; even race bikes will typically have clearance for 28mm to 32mm tires, while endurance machines will likely allow for wider still. It's worth noting that even if your new bike has come specced with 25mm or 28mm tires, there's a good chance it will have the clearance for something wider.

With wider tires it's possible to run a lower tire pressure for more comfort and added grip. Wider tires can be as fast as or faster than narrower widths as well.

Wheels and tires are increasingly tubeless-ready too. This means that you can add sealant and dispense with the inner tubes, reducing the risk of punctures and upping grip and ride comfort even more. Tubeless tires are in general faster as well.

Simon is a hugely experienced cycling tech writer, who has been writing for Cycling Weekly since 2003. Until recently he was our senior tech writer. In his cycling career Simon has mostly focused on time trialling with a national medal, a few open wins and his club's 30-mile record in his palmares. However, as writer and reviewer he's ridden more road bikes than he cares to remember, from eye-wateringly expensive aero race bikes to far more wallet friendly offerings and plenty in between.

After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships and claiming the plushie unicorn (true story), Stefan swapped the flat-bars for drop-bars and has never looked back. 

Since then, he’s earnt his 2ⁿᵈ cat racing licence in his first season racing as a third, completed the South Downs Double in under 20 hours and Everested in under 12.

How we tested these road bikes

We have a dedicated team of testers here at  Cycling Weekly , whose job is to review a whole range of cycling products and to write objective reviews of their experience of using them day in day out in a whole range of conditions.

With huge experience, they're really well placed to compare products, identify their strengths and weaknesses and bring you an honest, unbiased assessment of how they perform.

When it comes to testing road bikes we log hundreds of miles, looking at a number of factors as we assess their overall performance. Of course we consider what the bike is primarily designed for, whether it's an aero race bike, a lightweight climber or an endurance model but also look at more general considerations such as build and spec quality, durability and value for money. 

Get The Leadout Newsletter

The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!

Paul started writing for Cycling Weekly in 2015, covering cycling tech, new bikes and product testing. Since then, he’s reviewed hundreds of bikes and thousands of other pieces of cycling equipment for the magazine and the Cycling Weekly website.

He’s been cycling for a lot longer than that though and his travels by bike have taken him all around Europe and to California. He’s been riding gravel since before gravel bikes existed too, riding a cyclocross bike through the Chilterns and along the South Downs.

Trek, Canyon, and Pinarello are all teasing unreleased bikes which follow a particular formula

By Joe Baker Published 4 June 24

The veteran star heads up national team alongside Elynor Bäckstedt, but will have Lotte Kopecky to contend with

By Tom Thewlis Published 4 June 24

Useful links

• Tour de France
• Giro d'Italia
• Vuelta a España

Buyer's Guides

• Best road bikes
• Best gravel bikes
• Best smart turbo trainers
• Best cycling computers
• Editor's Choice
• Bike Reviews
• Component Reviews
• Clothing Reviews
• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Advertise with us

Cycling Weekly is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

• Specialized
• Bridge Bikeworks
• Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
• Bunch Bikes
• CYCLE OF GOOD
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Eddy Merckx
• Electric Bike Company
• EVO Bicycles
• Fahrradmanufaktur
• Flyer by Radio Flyer
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• JupiterBike
• Lectric eBikes
• LeMond Bicycles
• Lightweight
• View all brands
• Pivot Cycles
• Qualisports
• Quintana Roo
• Rad Power Bikes
• Raleigh Electric
• Riese & Müller
• Rocky Mountain
• Schindelhauer
• State Bicycle Co.
• Surface 604
• Urban Arrow
• Van Nicholas
• VELO DE VILLE
• Vintage Electric
• Yeti Cycles
• YT Industries

Trek FX 3 Disc

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / XS, SM, MD, LG, XL, XXL

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Gold Aluminum, DuoTrap S compatible, internal cable routing, flat mount disc, rack & fender mounts, 135x5mm QR
• Fork FX Carbon, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, 405mm axle-to-crown, ThruSkew 5mm QR
• Hubs Formula DC-22, alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 135x5mm QR
• Wheels Bontrager Tubeless Ready Disc, 32-hole, Presta valve
• Tires Bontrager H2 Comp, wire bead, 30tpi, 700x32c
• Chain KMC X10, 10 speed
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, Prowheel alloy, 40T narrow-wide ring, 170mm length; Size: L, XL, XXL, Prowheel alloy, 40T narrow-wide ring, 175mm length
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore M5120, long cage
• Shifters Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Brakeset Shimano hydraulic disc, MT201 lever, UR300 caliper
• Handlebar Size: XS, S, M, Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 600mm width; Size: L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 660mm width
• Saddle Bontrager H1
• Seatpost Bontrager alloy, 27.2mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length; Size: M, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length
• Grips Bontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus, lock-on, ergonomic
• Headset 1 1/8'' steel threadless

Q: How much is a 2023 Trek FX 3 Disc?

A 2023 Trek FX 3 Disc is typically priced around $1,049 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2023 Trek FX 3 Disc?

The 2023 Trek FX 3 Disc may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size 2023 Trek FX 3 Disc should I get?

No comments on this bike yet. Why not be the first?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want more road bikes in your mailbox?

The latest on road bikes delivered straight to your mailbox.

More Bikes in Range View All

Trek FX Sport 6

Trek FX 1 Stagger Disc

Felt FX FRD Ultimate Frame

More hybrid bikes view all.

Bulls Crossbike 2 Trapeze

Pinnacle Neon 2 Hybrid Bike

Fuji Adventure 27.5 ST

Deals view all, view all deals, recent posts view all.

What is Road Bike Database?

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, choosing the right road bike can…

Send Feedback

Have a suggestion? Looking for a bike that's not on Road Bike Database? Or perhaps you've spotted an error?

We'd love to hear from you. Let us know with the form below.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About Road Bike Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best road bikes here on Road Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, reviews, images and more on current and past road bikes. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on road bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Cervélo , BMC , Trek , Specialized and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for road bikes on Road Bike Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right road bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Bikes By Brand

Bikes by year, bikes by riding style.

• Electric Road
• folding-bike
• general-road
• general-urban
• long-tail-cargo

Bikes By Wheel Size

Popular bikes.

• 2022 Dolan TR1 Triathlon Disc Carbon Bike - Shimano Ultegra R8020
• 2021 Ribble Endurance SL Disc - Shimano Ultegra
• 2023 Cervélo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS
• 2021 Trek Ghostrider Go!
• 2022 Giant Attend CS, 3 GTS
• 2023 HEAD E Revelo II MEN
• 2022 Orbea GAIN D30 1X 20mph

Latest Bikes

• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Roadster4 Mixte vario HS

2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review | This brand new lightweight e-MTB is the stealthiest we’ve ever tested

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

https://www.trekbikes.com

$13,999 USD

- The near-silent motor performance - Solid chassis with excellent weight distribution - Great geometry and all-round handling - Supportive suspension offers exceptional control at speed - Sleek frame is low on e-bulk - The 9.8 model is surprisingly well priced

- Highly damped RockShox suspension isn't the plushest - TQ motor can lag - Not as light as some of its competitors - Rear axle lever makes noise while riding - Crankset Q-Factor is very wide

Mick & Wil review the Trek Fuel EXe

Following two years of development, the Trek Fuel EXe launches as a brand new electric mountain bike for 2023. Aiming to straddle the gap between the Rail (Trek’s full-powered, big travel e-MTB) and the regular Fuel EX, the Fuel EXe is built around a unique, never-before-seen motor that is claimed to be one of the quietest and lightest on the market. Along with its slim battery and carbon frame, the Fuel EXe is purported to weigh around 18kg in its lightest configuration, which is a good 5kg lighter than the Rail. That puts it into direct competition with the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise ; two bikes that have had a significant head start in the lightweight e-MTB category. So what exactly does the new Trek Fuel EXe bring to the party? And how does its new motor perform on the trail? We’ve been testing it for the past few weeks to find out!

Watch our Trek Fuel EXe review here:

Overall it’s a very clean system, and combined with the compact motor and slim downtube, the Fuel EXe does a remarkable job of not looking like an e-MTB.

An overview of the Trek Fuel EXe

Whereas the Rail is based upon the Slash enduro bike, the Trek Fuel EXe is essentially an electrified version of the Fuel EX trail bike. It features 29in wheels, though it gets a touch more travel with a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear wheel travel courtesy of the ABP four-bar suspension platform.

OCLV Mountain carbon fibre has been employed to construct the Fuel EXe frame, while a two-piece alloy rocker link drives the rear shock via a trunnion bearing mount. Unlike the regular Fuel EX, Rail and Slash that feature Trek’s proprietary Thru Shaft damper, the Fuel EXe relies on a conventional rear shock.

The compact TQ motor

Powering the Trek Fuel EXe is a brand new and extremely compact motor that has been developed in collaboration with Bavarian company TQ.

TQ has previously been known for producing the 120Nm monster motor found within the Haibike Flyon. Taking the same patented Harmonic Pin-Ring (HPR) mechanism, those clever Germans have shrunken it right down to create what it believes is the lightest and smallest e-MTB motor on the market.

Comprised of just two moving parts, the HPR drive unit doesn’t require a belt or additional cogs, and it spins at an RPM that is three times lower than a conventional motor. Thanks to its simplified construction, the HPR design is claimed to result in fewer operating frequencies, reducing not only the overall decibels produced by the motor, but also lowering the ‘tonality’ (read: annoyance) of the sound.

Despite its compact form, the German-manufactured HPR50 motor delivers a healthy 50Nm of torque and a peak power output of 300W. TQ claims this motor has the highest torque density on the market, while offering seamless power delivery with virtually no lag.

It’s bloody light too

According to TQ, the HPR50 motor weighs just 1.85kg. That’s lighter than Specialized’s SL 1.1 motor (1.95kg), Fazua’s Ride 60 motor (2.3kg), Shimano’s EP8 (2.6kg) and Bosch’s Performance CX (2.79kg).

To make the most of its weight advantage, the HPR50 motor is paired to a modest 360Wh battery. This is claimed to weigh 1.83kg, which is notably lighter than the 360Wh battery used in the Orbea Rise (2.2kg), and about the same weight as the Specialized Levo SL’s smaller 320Wh battery (1.8kg). The compact battery allows the downtube to be made much slimmer, which results in further weight savings.

Putting the motor and battery together, here’s how the total system weight compares between the new Fuel EXe and its two main competitors;

• Trek Fuel EXe (50Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 3.68kg 
• Specialized Levo SL (35Nm motor & 320Wh battery) – 3.75kg
• Orbea Rise (60Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 4.8kg

Unlike the Levo SL and the Rise, the Fuel EXe’s battery can be easily removed from the frame without having to drop out the motor. This means you can charge it in the bike, or separately if you don’t have a power point in your shed. Trek claims you can fully charge the battery in just two hours with a fast charger.

Trek will also be offering a 160Wh Range Extender battery that customers can purchase separately for $1,199 AUD. Boosting range by a claimed 40%, the piggyback battery is designed to fit into a standard water bottle cage with the addition of a built-in retention strap for security. Unfortunately the Range Extender battery won’t be available in Australia until late 2022 however.

Tidy, integrated display

Just like the Specialized Levo and Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay , the Trek Fuel EXe features a display that’s integrated directly into the top tube. This 2in O-LED screen forms the control hub for the bike, with a single button that turns the system on and off. This same button is then used to cycle through four pages that display key metrics including battery status, riding speed, average speed, rider power, motor power, and estimated range. Because of its integrated display, the Fuel EXe doesn’t have room for the Knock Block steering limiter, and so omits it entirely.

A discreet two button controller sits next to the left-hand grip, allowing you to toggle between the Eco, Mid and High assist settings. Holding the top button also engages the Walk mode, which delivers power to the rear wheel when you’re off the bike and pushing uphill.

Bluetooth and ANT+ capability allows the TQ system to pair with your GPS head unit and mobile phone. Further functions can be unlocked via the Trek Central app, which offers navigation and integration with third party apps. You can use the app to tune the motor’s assistance levels, and it’ll also provide you with tyre and suspension pressure recommendations if you’re using a TireWiz and AirWiz.

Geometry & mullet capability

Without a bulky motor getting in the way, there are few compromises forced upon the suspension layout and geometry of the Trek Fuel EXe. For example, the chainstay length sits at an impressive 440mm, which is quite short given the 29in rear wheel and 2.5in tyre clearance. Trek has also chosen to stick with conventional Boost hub spacing and a 55mm chainline, so there’s nothing funky in terms of standards.

With the Mino Link flip chip set in the Low position, the Fuel EXe features a 64.7° head angle, a 76.7° seat angle and a 38.5mm BB drop. In the High position those angles steepen by 0.5° and the BB lifts by almost 7mm.

In that same High setting, Trek also states that the Fuel EXe can be run as a mullet with a 27.5in rear wheel. This will affect the motor’s output and 25km/h cutoff point however, as there’s currently no way for users to adjust the rear wheel circumference in the TQ system.

Trek Fuel EXe price & specs

Globally, there will be six Trek Fuel EXe models offered for 2023. Only three of those models will be available in Australia, with prices starting at $9,499 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.5, and maxing out at $12,999 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

All Fuel EXe models make use of the same TQ-HPR50 motor, 360Wh battery and OCLV carbon frame. There will be no alloy models for the foreseeable future.

The bike we’ve been testing is the top-end Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS, which in the States will come with a staggering retail price of $13,999 USD (that’s approximately $20,000 AUD!). It features RockShox Ultimate-level suspension, Bontrager Line Pro carbon wheels, a one-piece RSL carbon bar and stem, a SRAM XX1 AXS drivetrain, Code RSC brakes and a Reverb AXS dropper post. While this model won’t be available in Australia, aside from the wireless bits the spec isn’t drastically different from the 9.8 XT. As usual though, our review won’t be focussing a whole lot on the individual components, but rather the important stuff that’s shared throughout the range; the frame, handling, suspension and drive system.

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

• Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox Lyrik Select+, Charger 3 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
• Drive Unit | TQ-HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
• Battery | TQ 360Wh
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | Shimano XT 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano XT 4-Piston
• Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
• Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
• Claimed Weight | 18.1kg
• RRP | $12,999 AUD

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.7

• Fork | Fox Rhythm 36, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float X, Performance Series, 2-Position Damper, 205x60mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Alloy Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres | Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | Shimano SLX 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Alloy 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano Deore 4-Piston
• Bar | Bontrager Line, Alloy, 27.5mm Rise, 780mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager Elite, 45mm Length
• Seatpost | TranzX Dropper, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L-XL)
• Claimed Weight | 19.05kg
• RRP | $10,999 AUD

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

• Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, Motion Control Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Sealed Bearing Hubs & Alex MD35 Alloy Rims, 34mm Inner Width
• Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Plus 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano MT420 4-Piston
• Bar | Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Alloy, 15mm Rise, 750mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager Alloy, 50mm Length
• Claimed Weight | 19.93kg
• RRP | $9,499 AUD

Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Trek Fuel EXe sizing & fit

Deviating from the regular Fuel EX, which comes in six sizes, the Trek Fuel EXe will only be available in four. To suit our 175-178cm testers we chose the Medium, which features a 452mm reach.

We had few complaints with sizing, though the stock handlebars are comically wide at 820mm. Those were promptly chopped down to a more conventional 780mm width, which proved to be a better fit with the 45mm ‘virtual’ stem length.

While the big diameter seat tube is nice and short, the 150mm dropper post limited our freedom of movement when riding down steep descents and along jump trails. We’d prefer to see a 170-180mm dropper on a bike that’s as capable as this.

Otherwise the Fuel EXe cockpit is a comfortable place to be thanks to the agreeable Bontrager saddle and lock-on grips. The seat tube angle isn’t too steep, with neutral weight distribution that doesn’t put a load of pressure on your hands. There’s plenty of adjustability thanks to the long saddle rails for those who do want to shunt it forward for a more aggressive climbing position.

Where the Fuel EXe definitely feels like an e-MTB is in its Q-Factor. Although the TQ-HPR50 motor is very compact, the fat e*13 carbon crank arms see the pedalling width blow out considerably. We measured the Q-Factor at 195mm, which is wider than any other e-MTB we’ve tested, and around 20mm wider than a regular mountain bike. Many riders will be unfazed by the difference, and indeed the wider stance can improve your overall stability on the bike. However, flat pedal riders will need to be wary when riding through deep ruts, and those with sensitive knees may simply find the Q-Factor to be too wide for comfort.

Suspension setup

The rear shock on the Trek Fuel EXe is designed to be run with 30% sag, a process that’s made easy thanks to the anodised gradients on the RockShox Super Deluxe.

Jose Gonzalez of Trek’s Suspension Lab explained to us that the Fuel EXe does have a slightly lower leverage rate compared to the regular Fuel EX, and the rear shock has been valved with a medium compression tune. The aim here is to provide more support to handle the additional weight of the battery and motor. Because of the greater damping forces generated by the shock, we trended towards having the compression adjusters backed off from the neutral setting. High-speed was set at minus two clicks (fully open) and the low-speed dial was set at minus one click. Rebound was set a couple of clicks faster than halfway to suit our 68-75kg testers.

Up front is the new 2023 RockShox Lyrik that features the new DebonAir+ spring and Charger 3 damper. RockShox recommends an extra 10psi for this fork when it’s fitted to an e-MTB, but we found this pressure to be too high when paired with the highly supportive Charger 3 damper. We ended up running 10psi less than recommended on the chart, set the rebound on the faster side, ran the high-speed compression at minus one click, and set the low-speed adjuster a few clicks lighter than neutral.

Trek Fuel EXe weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS test bike is 18.6kg, weighed without pedals and with the tyres set up tubeless.

That’s an impressive weight for a full suspension e-MTB, especially when you factor in the aggressive Bontrager tyres, powerful brakes and piggyback shock. Still, it’s not quite as light as some of its competitors;

• Specialized Levo SL Expert – 17.84kg
• Orbea Rise M10 – 18.38kg
• Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS – 18.6kg
• Specialized Kenevo SL Expert – 19.12kg

When you consider that the Fuel EXe is the only bike in that list with carbon wheels and crank arms, as well as a one-piece cockpit, its weight becomes a little less impressive. Given that the Fuel EXe supposedly has the lightest drive system out of the lot, we suspect some of the additional weight is found in the frame itself. That’s no bad thing, especially if it equates to having a stiffer and more robust chassis.

What does the Trek Fuel EXe do well?

When riding the Trek Fuel EXe the first thing you notice, or more accurately don’t notice, is just how quiet the TQ-HPR50 motor is. No doubt about it, this is easily the quietest e-MTB we’ve ever ridden.

The overall decibel output is low, and the motor’s pitch is significantly less prominent than other motors we’ve ridden. Rather than droning or whining, the TQ-HPR50 motor emits a more discreet sound that’s a bit like a gentle breeze whistling through the trees. Furthermore, there’s no annoying clacking noise on the descents like you’ll find with the latest Shimano and Bosch drive units. The TQ motor does feature an integrated freewheel that allows the drive wheel to disengage from the cranks to minimise drag, but despite this we couldn’t detect any obvious noise when descending on rocky trails.

Indeed the motor and chassis are well damped, with very little vibration or rattling present. While riding back-to-back with our Canyon Spectral:ON test bike, which features a cavernous downtube and a Shimano EP8 motor, the difference in trail noise was stark. Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Initially the muted motor gave the illusion of providing us with less assistance. This is because the power delivery is less obvious than a louder, whinier motor. However, a glance at our average riding speeds had us soon correcting that illusion.

Of course there’s not as much punch compared to the bigger 85-90Nm motors on the market, which is to be expected. During our standardised range test (more on that below), climbing speeds aboard the Fuel EXe hovered around 14km/h, compared to 18km/h on an EP8-equipped bike. This means you’ll be working harder on the Fuel EXe if all your pals are riding on full-powered e-MTBs.

Still, if you only ever ride singletrack aboard your e-MTB in the Eco or Trail assist settings, the TQ motor is likely to meet your needs. This will especially be the case for lighter and fitter riders, who will find the 50Nm output to be just about perfect for trail riding.

Well-damped suspension & no-fuss handling

It isn’t just the motor that’s quiet either, with the Trek Fuel EXe delivering a nicely damped ride quality that’s complemented by the distinct lack of any slurping noises from the fork’s new Charger 3 damper.

The carbon chassis feels stout and reliable, with no hint of twisting or excessive flex under load. It somehow manages to achieve this sensation without feeling harsh or pingy, and instead offers an accommodating platform that allows you to push it quite hard without fear of being punished for less calculated line choices.

The top-notch suspension plays into this beautifully when you’re smashing down rowdy descents. The Lyrik’s mid-stroke is particularly good, offering a heap of support with plenty of big hit damping control that encourages you to let off the brakes when gravity takes over.

While the suspension is good, it’s worth acknowledging that the Fuel EXe is not as plush as the Rail. Along with its lower overall weight, it can’t monster-truck down wide-open terrain like the Rail can.

The Fuel EXe takes the upper hand as the trail gets squigglier though, with less exaggeration required from your handling inputs. The smaller and shorter battery puts less weight up towards the head tube, helping to centralise and lower the bike’s centre of mass. Combined with the stout frame, there’s very little understeer present with the Fuel EXe. Compared to bigger and heavier e-MTBs, it never feels like it’s trying to push wide or ride away from you.

The excellent handling and weight distribution makes the Fuel EXe an easier bike to ride for less experienced riders. For more advanced pilots, the Fuel EXe delivers a thoroughly involving ride quality. Yes it’s still an 18kg bike, but it’s far more playful than the heavier Rail, with the shorter chainstays helping to encourage front wheel popping shenanigans.

It dips into corners without requiring constant persuasion, and it takes to the air well too, maintaining a steady trajectory without making you feel like you’re an unwilling passenger. There’s a heap of support from the suspension for soaking up ill-timed landings when things do go awry, with the shock’s Hydraulic Bottom Out ramping up the travel in the final 20% of the stroke. While the O-ring indicated we’d used full travel on many occasions, not once were we able to detect it while riding.

What does it struggle with?

Though the progressive RockShox suspension on the Trek Fuel EXe offers bucketloads of high-speed control, it does feel quite aggressively damped on smaller chatter. This is more so the case with the new Lyrik, which hasn’t amazed us with its small-bump compliance, transmitting more feedback through to our hands.

The fork on our test bike has improved noticeably over the first dozen rides as the seals and bushings have bedded in, and there’s no denying the incredible support and control that the Charger 3 damper brings. However, the Fuel EXe hasn’t exactly delivered a cloud-like ride quality, certainly not compared to the floaty Spectral:ON we’ve been testing alongside it. For this reason, we’d be curious to try out the Fuel EXe 9.7 to see whether its Fox suspension package brings about a more supple ride.

We’ll point out that heavier and more aggressive riders may not encounter the same experience as us. And it has to be said that the damping support does make the Fuel EXe a highly responsive and rewarding bike to ride. Still, those eager for the cushiest ride on the chunkiest of terrain will likely be better served by the Rail.

Overall we’ve been impressed by the usable and natural-feeling support from the TQ-HPR50 motor. It doesn’t spike or surge, offering a nicely progressive power band that makes it predictable and easy to modulate on tricky climbs. The 25km/h cutoff point is about as seamless it gets, and because the motor is so quiet, it’s difficult to tell when the motor has disengaged from the cranks.

It took us a few rides to get used to though, as it can occasionally lag before the power starts to come on. Spinning a lower gear at a slightly higher cadence seems to be its preferred input, though we’ve not found it to be as adept at responding to rapid changes in RPM compared to some other e-MTB motors.

There are options to tune the TQ motor via the Trek Central app, which allows you to tweak the pedal response, assist factor and the maximum power of each of the three settings. Unfortunately the app hasn’t been available prior to the Fuel EXe’s public launch, so we’re yet to play around with those tuning options. We’ll be exploring more of that functionality over the coming weeks of riding.

What range can you get with the Trek Fuel EXe?

Depending on the terrain, most of our rides on the Trek Fuel EXe have typically racked up 1,000-1,300m of elevation gain over a distance of 30-38km. We’ve mostly utilised the Mid power setting, which strikes a nice balance for general trail riding.

It’s been mighty helpful having the battery status displayed as a percentage, and the remaining ride time and range estimations have proven to be surprisingly accurate. When you do get down to the final 10% on the battery, the motor’s power output automatically lowers a few notches to help conserve what’s left. It doesn’t totally limp home though, retaining a usable level of support all the way down to 0%. When you have finally cooked the goose, the lack of drag through the TQ motor means it’s not an awful experience to ride the Fuel EXe on human power alone.

To see how the Fuel EXe’s efficiency compares directly to some of the other e-MTBs we’ve reviewed, we subjected it to our standardised range test. This involves the same rider pedalling up a road climb with a 10% average grade, with the motor set to its most powerful setting, before bombing back down a singletrack descent. The idea is to see how much elevation, and how many laps each bike can rack up on a single charge, while keeping the variables as constant as possible.

Here’s how the Fuel EXe faired in our range test;

• Norco Sight VLT (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,478m climbing (12.8 runs)
• Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay (Dyname 4.0, 720Wh Battery) – 2,108m climbing (10.9 runs)
• Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 (Bosch Gen 4, 625Wh Battery) – 1,800m climbing (9.3 runs)
• Canyon Spectral:ON (Shimano EP8, 630Wh Battery) – 1,570m climbing (8 runs)
• Orbea Rise (Shimano EP8-RS, 360Wh Battery) – 1,388m climbing (7.2 runs)
• Specialized Levo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,377m climbing (7.1 runs)
• Trek Fuel EXe (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,312m climbing (6.8 runs)
• Specialized Kenevo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,053m climbing (5.5 runs)

As you can tell by those figures, the Fuel EXe managed to achieve considerably more range than the Kenevo SL, and not just because it has a larger capacity battery. The Fuel EXe is also lighter, comes fitted with faster-rolling tyres and features a more efficient suspension platform.

It didn’t get quite as much as the Levo SL however, and there are reasons for that. The 35Nm output of the Levo SL’s motor is naturally less demanding in terms of its fuel requirements, since it delivers a slower average riding speed. This makes the Fuel EXe a noticeably quicker bike on the climbs, which isn’t accounted for in our range test data.

Given the Orbea Rise has the same capacity battery as the Fuel EXe and a more powerful motor on paper, how did it achieve more range? The simple explanation is the tyres. The Rise M10 we tested was fitted with a lighter and much faster rolling Maxxis Dissector and Rekon tyre combo, which likely accounts for the difference.

Of course it’d be possible to get more range out of the Fuel EXe by fitting lower profile tyres, and you can also utilise the lower assist settings to reduce power consumption. Once the Range Extender batteries are available, Fuel EXe owners will have the opportunity to boost range by up to 40%, which will see it get closer to some of those bigger capacity e-MTBs.

Component highs & lows

As mentioned earlier, we won’t be dwelling on the components of our Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS test bike. And truth be told, there’s not a lot to be said about the ultra high-end build kit that we haven’t discussed before.

We’ve largely ignored the TireWiz and AirWiz gizmos to begin with, partly because we’ve been experimenting with tyre and suspension setup. However, we’ll be delving more into their functionality now that we have access to the Trek Central app that pairs with the sensors to provide live readings and recommendations.

It is worth touching on the new Bontrager SE5 tyres, which are spec’d on each Fuel EXe model. These 2.5in wide tyres feature a Minion DHR II-inspired tread pattern and a dual compound mix that combines a firmer 61a rubber in the centre tread, and softer 50a rubber for the cornering blocks. They’re built upon the Core Strength casing, which combines sidewall protection with a sub-tread reinforcement for puncture protection. The result is a solid, durable and well-damped tyre that isn’t overly stiff on the trail, while also feeling predictable across a broad range of surfaces. They’re decent all-rounders, though they aren’t as tacky as a Maxxis 3C compound or a Specialized T9 tyre. If this were our bike, we’d likely be fitting something softer up front for a little more bite.

There have been some mild annoyances on our test bike, like the rattling thru-axle lever at the rear dropout. Thankfully this lever can be removed, though you do lose its handy 6mm hex key. That didn’t matter too much as the fork’s steerer tube comes loaded with a Bontrager BITS multi-tool inside. The tool can be a bit tricky to remove, and we also found the bits have a habit of coming loose, allowing them to rattle around inside the steerer. Once tightened up, the Fuel EXe returned to its blissfully silent state.

We love how the TQ display sits flush with the top tube, though it’d be nice to see a clock offered on one of the data screens. The option to display cadence would also be useful, especially while getting accustomed to the TQ motor’s output. The controller offers a nice tactile platform with an audible, yet discreet ‘beep’ whenever you switch assist levels. However, accessing the Walk mode requires you to constantly press down the top button with your thumb, which is awkward when you’re holding onto the bars and pushing the bike up a steep and slippery incline.

Otherwise all the electrics on the Fuel EXe have proven to be totally functional. Being able to easily remove the battery will be a welcome feature for anyone who needs to charge it separately to where the bike is stored, and we like that the main charge port is located high up on the downtube where it’s protected by a thick rubber plug. Internally there’s also an automatic lock built into the main battery’s connector, basically eliminating any chance of the cable coming loose while bouncing down the trail. Sure they’re only small details, but they’re also clear signs of a well-considered design.

Trek Fuel EXe vs Specialized Levo SL vs Orbea Rise

Over the past year we’ve spent a load of time aboard two of the Trek Fuel EXe’s main rivals; the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise. So how do these bikes compare?

Specialized Levo SL

Specialized launched the Levo SL at the start of 2020, which shows just how far behind Trek and most other brands have been. No, the Levo SL wasn’t the first lightweight e-MTB to hit the market, but it is the bike that has legitimised the category.

The Levo SL is built around the SL 1.1 motor, which you’ll also find in the Kenevo SL and the Creo e-Road bike. This motor dishes out 35Nm of peak torque, making it considerably less powerful compared to the TQ motor in the Fuel EXe. It’s also much noisier, emitting an annoyingly whiny pitch that takes a while for the rider to tune out. However, the SL 1.1 motor does offer more intuitive power delivery, and it’s also better at handling high-cadence pedalling spurts.

In terms of ride quality, the Levo SL delivers noticeably plusher and more active suspension performance, which makes it a comfortable bike to pedal over choppy terrain. It does have 10mm more travel at the rear, though the suspension kinematic and shock tune also feels lighter compared to the Fuel EXe. We have found it easier to bottom out the Levo SL, and the sensation is harsh with the Float DPX2 shock.

The Levo SL’s handling is nice and lively, though the front-end steering is a little light with the 51mm fork offset, resulting in some twitchiness at speed. In comparison the Fuel EXe feels better balanced across a range of riding speeds thanks to its solid chassis and well-damped suspension. It’s no doubt the more modern bike of the two, making the two year-old Levo SL feel a little outdated.

It also has to be said that the Fuel EXe kills it on value compared to the Levo SL. The Levo SL Expert we tested features a Fox 36 GRIP2 fork and Float DPX2 shock, alloy Roval wheels, a SRAM GX/X01 drivetrain and Code RS brakes. In comparison, the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT gets a similar level of suspension albeit with a Shimano XT groupset, carbon wheels, carbon cranks and a one-piece carbon cockpit. Despite featuring a higher-end spec, the Fuel EXe sells for $2,100 AUD less , making for a far more appealing package.

The Orbea Rise arrived not long after the Levo SL at the tail-end of 2020, though it took a slightly different tact by taking an off-the-shelf Shimano EP8 motor and de-tuning it to reduce the peak torque output to 60Nm. Orbea also developed its own ‘RS’ firmware for the Japanese motor, which aimed to provide a more natural feel to the power delivery while improving efficiency. This was then paired to a smaller 360Wh battery and a gorgeously svelte carbon frame to deliver complete bike weights from as low as 16.2kg.

The more sensibly-spec’d Rise M10 we tested came in at 18.38kg, though it was fitted with lightweight Maxxis tyres that felt somewhat out of place. With more appropriate rubber, the Rise would likely come in at a similar weight to the Fuel EXe.

While value for money from Orbea is better than Specialized, it’s still not as impressive as the Fuel EXe. The Rise M10 comes with blingy Factory Series Fox suspension, a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain and alloy Race Face wheels, but sells for two grand more than the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

On the trail the Rise is a closer match to the Fuel EXe. The geometry is pretty similar, though the Rise chassis doesn’t feel quite as stout when being pushed hard. This also comes down to the steeper head angle (65.5° vs 64.7°), and it’s also due to the suspension, which is marginally more sensitive off-the-top. It delivers terrific traction and a comfortable ride quality, though it’s not as supportive as the Fuel EXe.

Speaking of suspension, we wouldn’t be opposed to seeing both the Rise and Fuel EXe equipped with 150mm of rear travel like the Levo SL. Sure these are lightweight e-MTBs, but travel is travel, and we’re still talking about 18+kg bikes that are capable of going very fast on rough terrain. That said, any increase might see them encroaching too far into the territory of their bigger travel, full-powered siblings (the Wild FS and Rail).

We found there to be terrific power on tap from the Rise’ EP8-RS motor, and the E-Tube app allows you to tweak the acceleration response and assistance character of each setting, depending on how you want the power to come on. The stock tune works mighty well though, with the Rise being an efficient performer that feels natural and intuitive on the trail, with just a fraction more punch available for scaling crux features on a technical climb.

As mentioned earlier, the Shimano EP8 drive unit is much noisier than the Fuel EXe’s TQ motor, which is basically silent in comparison – both on the climbs and on the descents. We also prefer the clean integration of the TQ system, with its bright and easy-to-read top tube display. The standard display on the Rise is a rather austere junction box that features a couple of tiny LEDs. You can upgrade this to the Shimano EM800 display for an additional fee, though it comes with additional wires that add clutter to the cockpit. It’s plenty functional, just not as tidy as the Fuel EXe.

Flow’s Verdict

The Trek Fuel EXe is a terrific example of just how far e-MTB technology has come. Not only is it a fantastic looking bike that’s low on bulk, it also manages to deliver a load of performance out of an impressively lightweight package.

The unique TQ motor is stunningly quiet, and for many riders its 50Nm output will be ideal. Heavier folks and those chasing maximum power with maximum range will still be better served by the Rail and is full-powered Bosch motor. The Rail also features a plusher ride quality that suits brainless bombing down the roughest descents.

In comparison the Fuel EXe is a more involving bike to ride, and it rewards an active pilot that seeks to work and play with the terrain. It’s responsive and fun to ride on twisty singletrack, with the sort of on-point handling and geometry that we expect we’ll be seeing in the next generation Fuel EX.

While the suspension isn’t buttery smooth over smaller chatter, it does produce a heap of support and incredible control at higher speeds. Along with the stout chassis, the Fuel EXe exhibits a well-damped ride quality that shrugs off the big hits and awkward landings despite not having a tonne of travel.

Indeed for those riders who are looking for that hallowed middle-ground between a regular mountain bike and an e-MTB, the Fuel EXe presents one of the most compelling options to date.

• Submit for Review
• Terms & Conditions

Enjoy reading this?

Get similar articles delivered directly to your inbox

2023 Trek Checkpoint SL 5 Review

Are you looking to upgrade your bicycle and don’t know where to start? With so many options on the market, it can difficult to decide which one is best for you. 

Well, if you are an avid cyclist that covers long distances, then the 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL 5 should be at the top of your list.

Trek has been in the business of making bicycles for more than four decades and is renowned for making some of the best quality cycle frames. 

The 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL 5 features a lightweight 500 Series OCLV Carbon fiber frame and parts that have been designed with high performance and durability in mind.

This review is an exploration of the 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL 5 bike; everything from its build quality, handling, components and performance. 

Read on to discover why this road bike is worth investing in.

The 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL 5 is one of the most versatile, race-ready gravel bikes on the market. 

With Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and other components, you can go from crushing all-day gravel epics to exploring singletrack with equal parts speed and confidence. 

In this review, we’ll explore the features that make this gravel bike stand out from the rest.

The Trek Checkpoint SL 5 is a bikepacking and gravel bike that gives you the perfect blend of balance, power and performance on any terrain. 

With its lightweight OCLV Carbon frame and components, this bike is great for rides over miles of hills or through sandy trails. 

Other features include 29-inch wheels, IsoSpeed, downtube storage door, unobtrusive mudguard compatibility and durable Bontrager Paradigm SL rims. 

This is an adventure ready bike designed for those wanting to explore their limits on varied terrains.

– Lightweight OCLV Carbon frame for superior strength

– Shimano GRX 2×11 drivetrain

– Flat mount hydraulic disc brakes

– Unobtrusive fender and bag mounts

– Durable Bontrager Paradigm Tubeless ready rims

– 700x40c Tubeless Ready Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tires

The Checkpoint SL 5 has an incredibly light and stiff 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame which provides excellent handling and response. 

The IsoSpeed decoupler delivers a dampened, responsive ride that absorbs unpleasant bumps while avoiding harsh impacts. 

A storage compartment on the downtube allows you to conveniently store your tools and equipment. 

It also has strategically placed mounts for extra water storage or bags, as well as a wide range of gears that make it an ideal choice for racing across any terrain.

Shimano’s GRX 2×11 drivetrain offers crisp shifting and incredible control while riding off road or in technical conditions. 

The 46/30T chainrings and 11-34, 11 speed cassette gearing combination gives you plenty of options to choose from during climbs or descents.

Running on Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, the Checkpoint SL 5 provides exceptional brake performance with minimal effort required from the rider to modulate stopping power. 

This makes it easy for novice riders who are still getting accustomed to higher speeds on off road terrain.

Wheels & Tires

Tubeless compatible Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels with 700x40mm Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tires offer ample traction to tackle any type of terrains, whether it be dirt roads, gravel paths, or trails full of rocks and roots. 

The generous clearance of this frame allows you to install larger tires (700x45mm or 27.5×2.1″) for riding over more difficult terrain and tracks.

Bottom Line

The Checkpoint SL 5 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance race ready gravel bike that won’t let them down when pushed hard in unpredictable conditions. 

The light frame paired with powerful disc brakes alongside tubeless compatible wheels & tires provide extreme control across varied terrain – making it well suited for epic adventures through nature as well as competitive racing against your friends on long weekends away!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

Related Posts

Salsa Heyday 5.6 Advent Fat-Tire Bike Review

2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 Review

Vitus Substance Carbon HT Rival Gravel Bike Review

Trek Domane SLR 9 AXS Gen 4 Review

The 13 Best Electric Bikes of 2024, Tested and Approved

We’ve tested dozens of electric bikes in every category—commuter, cargo, cruiser, folding, mountain, and city. Here are the ones worth considering in a range of styles and prices.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

While bicycle prices continue falling—you'll find lots of sales and discounts right now from brands and retailers—there is possible change on the horizon. What may impact the industry in the next few months is action by the Biden administration to increase tariffs on imported goods from China—and that includes electric vehicles.

The reason for the new tariffs is to give American automakers an edge over the Chinese brands. It is uncertain at this time if the tariffs will include e-bikes as well. Inventory that has been in warehouses and bike shops for months won't be affected, but pricing for new e-bikes entering the U.S. could be.

In the meantime, our roundup of the best e-bikes offers helpful reviews so you can find the right option for you. We focused on a range: lower and mid-price options from brands you can purchase directly online, some recommendations for e-bikes available through bike shops, and more expensive models that our bike testers loved.

Brands like Aventon , Ride1Up , and Lectric offer affordable models you can buy online that perform well in our ride testing. If you want to purchase an electric bike in person or test ride before you buy, established players like Specialized and Trek offer many types of e-bikes and have hundreds of dealers nationwide. Additionally, REI has many locations across the country offering its Co-op e-bikes and models from other popular brands.

Check out Bicycling’s 2024 Bike Awards for 13 exceptional, high-performing e-bikes rigorously vetted by our editorial team.

The Best E-Bikes

• Best Overall : Aventon Level.2
• Best Utility: Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1
• Best Fat Tire : Aventon Aventure.2
• Best Fat Tire Commuter : Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus
• Best E-MTB: Aventon Ramblas eMTB

How We Test E-Bikes

Our full electric bike reviews, things to consider when buying an e-bike, how to buy a used e-bike.

Our experienced bike test team evaluates each model included here on its overall quality, safety features, handling, motor, and battery life. We also assess whether the components and features add to the overall quality of the ride. Bicycling editors tested these bikes on local roads, commuting to and from work, using them to stock up on groceries and beer, and running their batteries down to see how long they last on one charge.

Deputy editor Tara Seplavy , the author of this article, also worked in bicycle product development for two decades and led product management for major bike brands. Plus, she commutes to Bicycling's headquarters daily on an e-bike.

While we rode most of the e-bikes in this story, sometimes we can’t get our hands on a great electric bike. In those cases, we rely on the expertise of our test team, interviews with product managers, and rigorous research to compare the bikes’ value and performance against similar models we’ve tested.

Aventon Level.2 Electric Bike

Although we loved the original Level , its update is an improvement in practically every way. A smoother ride than its predecessor, it sports a new torque sensor that evenly distributes power, resulting in a more natural ride feel that’s easier to control and manage. Its update also adds visibility, not just with integrated lights, but a full color, easy-to-read display. The Level.2 isn’t just one of our favorite e-bikes—at its price, comfort level, and premium features, we think it just might be the best.

Our only gripe is with its Zoom Aria suspension fork, which can’t handle bigger bumps, though the lockout feature works well. When it hits these large bumps, the fork's rebound is unpredictable and rapid, and it tends to bottom out. Still, if you need an e-bike for doing just about anything, from commuting to work to zipping around pavement on the weekend, the Aventon Level.2 is our top nomination.

Aventon Aventure.2 Electric Bike

Aventon has been on a roll with its new models and continuous revisions to existing platforms. The brand’s update to its Aventure fat-tire e-bike is no exception. At first glance, there are few significant visual differences between the original Aventure and this second-generation model. However once you ride it, the small changes add up and feel huge.

Compared to the original Aventure, this second gen rides much more smoothly. The new torque sensor allows more control over the acceleration of Aventure’s 750W rear hub motor; lighter-weight testers found the previous model to have too much torque, but the latest Aventure remedied this fault. Additional updates include a new head unit interface, integrated turn signals, a front light, a rear rack, and fenders for keeping clean.

The Aventure.2 is an excellent fat-tire e-bike for commutes, especially on snowy days and gravel pathways. Off-roading, it excels on doubletrack trails, but with this burly bike’s weight and components, it has limited functionality on singletrack and more aggressive mountain trails.

More of the Best Fat-Tire E-Bikes

Aventon Ramblas eMTB

The Aventon Ramblas is a category-defining hardtail e-MTB that impressed us during trail testing. Its trail-forward components include a 1x12 SRAM Eagle drivetrain that can handle most climbs, powerful 4-piston SRAM brakes, a solidly stiff 35mm RockShox fork, a comfy dropper seatpost, and cushy 2.4-inch wide tires. These are unmatched by any other hardtail e-MTB, especially given its price.

"The Ramblas has no true competitors for comparatively priced, trail-ready e-MTBs," says Seplavy. "Every so often a bike comes along that entirely shifts the bicycle market—the Ramblas might do that for mountain biking. And once more bike brands see and ride the Ramblas, I expect several will soon follow Aventon’s lead with sharp-priced, trail-capable hardtail e-MTBs."

Read Full Review

Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Electric Bike

Brawny, big, and bold, the RadRover 6 Plus is powerful at its best and sluggish at its worst. With its 750W rear hub, 4-inch-wide tires, and RST spring suspension fork (with 60mm of travel), it’s cushy and stable enough to tackle potholes as well as dirt, rocks, and snow.

Compared to its predecessor, an updated display and solid hydraulic disc brakes make the RadRover 6 Plus a more comfortable and relaxed ride. It also comes in at just over $1,ooo making it reasonably priced.

With its extreme weight of 74 pounds (without a rack), we wouldn’t dare to roll this thing upstairs. If you need a do-it-all bike to help get you to and from work or the grocery store and frequently battle the elements while doing it, or if you have a lot of land you’d like to tear up, the RadRover 6 is your beast. But anyone living in a small space might have trouble handling this steed.

Lectric One eBike

A big reason to consider Lectric’s One, according to Test Editor Dan Chabanov, is Pinion, a German brand that manufactures high-end and fully enclosed gearbox units—sort of like an internally geared hub, he notes, except mounted in the bottom bracket.

Most consumers don’t know about the brand, explains Chabanov, because Pinion products are typically found on very pricey and niche bikes. Having this system on a $2,000 commuter e-bike, he notes, is very exciting, especially since it’s a part usually reserved for bikes triple that price.

Chabanov was impressed with not only the Pinion system’s smoothness and precision, but the hub motor as well. While the improved cadence sensor was better than others he’s used, Chabanov notes it was still very much a cadence sensor. “Like most cadence sensor-equipped bikes, the One feels disconnected from the motor,” he says. “This feeling is from a combination of lag (though very slight in this case) and because the force put into the pedals does not relate to the motor’s output. Both factors result in a slightly unnatural motor response.”

Still, it didn’t take Chabanov long to get used to how the One delivers its motor assist. The One is an ideal option for riders who seek a dependable, low-maintenance, all-weather commuter bike with the bells and whistles of a bike that usually costs much more.

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser Electric Bike

Sometimes, you just want a classic cruiser to take out on the weekends. And if that casualness is your desired style, the Ride1Up’s Cafe Cruiser is your best bet. Strapped with a built-in rack, front and rear lights, a 750W motor, hydraulic disc brakes, a decent suspension fork, and 3-inch-wide tires, this upright bike is stable enough for newer e-riders, and with an added passenger kit , the little one, too.

Our testing found that the bike had plenty of oomph to climb short hills despite its weight and laidback geometry. But, like several wide-tire bikes, it has some handling issues. It’s capable of speeds up to 28 mph (and 20 mph using the throttle), which is more than enough power to get you where you need to be.

Ride1Up Portola Electric Bike

Ride1Up’s new Portola folding bike packs a lot of punch for how small it is. Folding down to a compact 19- x 29.5- x 33-inch footprint, this bike features a 750W rear hub motor with 65Nm torque, hydraulic disc brakes, a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain, and an integrated rear rack with 130-pound carrying capacity.

For less than $1,000, this is a great deal for bimodal commuters, RVers, vanlifers, or folks living in a small apartment. The standard 10.4Ah battery has a claimed range of 20 to 40 miles. Or bump the range up to 45 miles with an optional 13.4Ah battery for an additional $100.

Specialized Globe Haul ST Electric Bike

If you need to haul it all, go with our 2023 Bike of the Year : Specialized’s Globe Haul ST. With a carrying capacity of a whopping 419 pounds, it’s good for a range of riding tasks, from grabbing groceries to dropping Fido off at doggy daycare.

Specialized designed this bike with the average commuter in mind, motivating riders to swap those short- and medium-distance car trips with a bicycle instead. The result is a well-designed short-tail cargo bike with wide 20- x 3.5-inch tires that can eat bumps while keeping you stable and low to the ground. It’s also a blast to ride.

Our test editor Dan Chabanov says it feels much more like a traditional bike than a souped-up e-cargo, which is to say, it’s actually fun. “If you haven’t ridden an e-cargo bike, you might take this for granted,” he says. “But the reality is that even some of the more compact e-cargo bike options out there often don’t ride like a typical bike, or worse, they simply ride poorly. As a cyclist, one of the Haul ST’s most enamoring traits is how much it rides like a ‘normal’ bike. Well, that and the ability to carry a week’s worth of groceries on it.”

Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 Electric Bike

We’re fans of the unpowered Treadwell for its clean looks and upright rider position. It’s not quite a hybrid but also not a foot-forward-style cruiser. The line is comprised of unique, practical bikes for city commuting or riding around town.

The Treadwell Neo 2 improves on this by offering electric assistance without a big weight penalty. This makes for a light and zippier riding bike at a low price. A Class 1 rear hub motor moves the Treadwell along smoothly at up to 20 mph with pedal-assisted power. The 7-speed drivetrain and a wide-range cassette help you get up long hills, and the Maxxis 650b tires roll fast on pavement.

Velotric T1

Hybrid bikes combine elements of road bikes (lightweight frame, 700c wheels) and mountain bikes (flat handlebar, wide-range gearing, and sometimes suspension). These bikes offer a compelling combination of traits that can make hybrids the best choice for many riders’ commuting, fitness, or leisure needs.

One of Seplavy’s top choices is Velotric’s T1. Sporty and quick, the bike handles much like some road bikes. Credit that snappy feel, she says, to the T1’s 350W rear hub motor and road bike-like geometry, but also from its weight at 36 pounds.

Velotric packs plenty of tech features into the T1, too. There’s a torque sensor for a smooth and natural pedaling feel and a light-sensing headlamp that turns on when it gets dark. For security, there is a fingerprint lock on the bike plus GPS tracking and theft alert via Velotric‘s app.

Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through Electric Bike

Specialized’s Turbo Vado 4.0 is smart and comfortable, with solid brakes, a terrific fork, a sleek design, and a clean iPhone companion app. We’ve ridden a lot of e-bikes over the years, and the Specialized Turbo models consistently test amongst the best in all categories.

The brand puts a ton of development time into its Turbo series e-bikes by refining the motor tune and carefully selecting parts. This work pays off with best-in-class ride quality. If you have hesitated to try an e-bike because you think it won’t feel like your favorite non-assist bike, try a Specialized Turbo. You’ll quickly become a convert.

Specialized offers the bike at several price levels between $3,250 and $5,500. You can purchase Turbo Vados with traditional or step-through frame styles, derailleur or internal hub drivetrain configurations, and several color offerings.

Bluejay Premier Edition

If you’re looking for a fun bike for summer rides around town or to the beach, Bluejay’s Premier Edition should be on your list. Bluejay combines elements of classic cruisers and townie bikes into a stylish electric bike. We found the bike ideal for trips to the farmers’ market, morning coffee, or weekend brunch, and rides with the kids or friends.

A 350-watt Bafang mid-drive motor (powered by a removable 550Wh battery) is at the heart of the Premier Edition. It uses a torque sensor for smooth pedal response and has a maximum assisted speed of 20mph. Shifting duties are handled by Shimano’s low maintenance 8-speed Alfine internal hub.

Bluejay sells this model in two sizes (small for riders 5-feet-5-inches and under, and large for riders 5-feet-6-inches and taller) and 15 fun and poppy colors (including Luxe Camel, Hot Pink, Citrus Orange).

While the Bluejay is a little pricier than some other e-bike options, it comes fully loaded with front and rear racks, lights, fenders, a bell, and an adjustable stem. The rear rack can accommodate up to 55 pounds of cargo and is compatible with a Thule Yepp Maxi child seat (sold separately).

Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep

Seniors come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s difficult to recommend just one e-bike model for every type of rider. But based on conversations with Bicycling members and our experience working in bike shops and at cycling events, many older riders seek a few common traits in an electric bike. They want something that’s easy to get on and off, simple to use, low maintenance, and smooth riding.

Trek’s Verve+ 3 Lowstep checks off each of those boxes. The Verve+ is powered by the trusted and smooth-riding Bosch Active Plus motor system. The 250W mid-drive motor has 50Nm of torque and powers the rider up to 20 mph. This Trek also features a wide-range Shimano 9-speed drivetrain for getting up hills. Powerful and reliable Shimano hydraulic disc brakes handle stopping duties.

The Verve+ 3 Lowstep uses a step-through style frame (it is lower than many other e-bikes) that makes getting on or off the bike easy. It also features a suspension seatpost to smooth out potholes and bumps on the road, and an adjustable height and rise step to dial in your riding position.

Since Trek has hundreds of dealers and company-owned stores throughout the country, you’re never far away from a Trek shop if you need service or repair. Plus, the Bosch and Shimano components are among the most-trusted and durable parts in the category.

A Few E-Bike Terms to Know

.css-1f6aja5{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;background-color:#ffffff;border:0;border-bottom:none;border-top:0.0625rem solid #e8e8e8;color:#000;cursor:pointer;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;padding-bottom:0.3125rem;padding-top:0.3125rem;scroll-margin-top:0rem;text-align:left;width:100%;}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1f6aja5{scroll-margin-top:3.375rem;}} .css-jtmji2{border-radius:50%;width:1.875rem;border:thin solid #6f6f6f;height:1.875rem;padding:0.4rem;margin-right:0.625rem;} .css-jlx6sx{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;width:0.9375rem;height:0.9375rem;margin-right:0.625rem;-webkit-transform:rotate(90deg);-moz-transform:rotate(90deg);-ms-transform:rotate(90deg);transform:rotate(90deg);-webkit-transition:-webkit-transform 250ms ease-in-out;transition:transform 250ms ease-in-out;} torque.

Measured in Newton meters (or Nm), torque is a rotational measurement of force—and the number to pay attention to when you want an idea of an e-bike motor’s output. More torque means more power off the line and more boost to your pedaling. 

The heavier the bike, the more torque it needs. Lighter road bikes typically have 30 to 40 Nm of torque, and trail and cargo models (generally) have at least 80 Nm. Most commuter bikes fall somewhere in between.

The size of an e-bike’s battery is measured in watt-hours (or Wh). This measurement represents the energy stored in the battery and how many watts it can deliver each hour. The higher the number, the longer the range, but the faster you go, the faster you drain the battery.

So, if a 504Wh battery paired with a 500W motor gives you one hour of ride time at the highest assist, riding at about half that power will double your range.

Locking Battery

Many e-bike brands seamlessly integrate batteries to make the bike look sleeker (and more like a traditional non-assist bike). Most batteries lock to the bike and come with a key that lets you unlock and remove it, which serves multiple purposes: You can remove the battery and charge it off the bike, plus a locked battery deters (and hopefully prevents) a thief from stealing it. And an e-bike with the battery removed is safer for hauling on a bike rack and lighter for carrying up steps.

Stability and Control

Since e-bikes can maintain higher speeds for longer than standard bikes, you want extra control when riding. Wider tires provide better traction and the freedom to leave the pavement with little penalty, and a suspension fork will help tame some of the rougher roads you might explore. Good disc brakes are a must, too, for slowing a heavy bike at high speed. This is not a place to skimp.

Integrated Lights

Some e-bikes have an integrated lighting system that turns on when you power up the bike. While this is a great feature, it’s not a deal-breaker if your bike doesn’t come equipped this way. It’s just as easy to attach your own since so many great bike lights are available.

Warranty and Service

E-bikes need regular maintenance and repair to stay in good working condition. Because they’re heavier and go faster than non-assist bicycles, e-bikes often require more regular service on parts like brakes, tires, and drivetrain components. We recommend having a good relationship with a local bike shop experienced in e-bike repair to keep your equipment running smoothly.

E-bikes use electronics for their motors, batteries, and displays. These parts are often proprietary to bike brands or even specific e-bike models, making replacement more difficult than parts on non-electric bicycles. Make sure to use the correct electronic replacement parts to avoid damaging your e-bike (or it catching fire).

Established brands usually (but not always) have a good supply of these parts for replacement, even for years after a bike goes out of production. Bosch and Shimano are two e-bike motor manufacturers with some of the most compatibility between bikes and stock parts for previous generations of systems.

Look for e-bikes from brands that offer at least a one-year warranty on electronic components (many brands’ warranties are longer) and make items like replacement batteries for your bike. These parts are usually not cheap (sometimes up to half the cost of a new bike), but it’s the difference between having an e-bike that can be repaired or becomes a bicycle-shaped paperweight if something goes wrong.

Certification

Following a dramatic increase in fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries used in electric bikes, there is a push from local officials, regulatory agencies , and advocacy groups across the U.S. for improved safety certification of e-bikes, batteries, and motor units. On September 16, 2023, a New York City law went into effect requiring that any e-bike sold in the city “has been certified by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard 2849”. And in November 2023, Amazon announced it ceased sales of illegal batteries to New Yorkers.

However, just because something is marketed as UL 2849 compliant, tested to UL 2849, or even “certified to UL 2849” does not mean it is UL Safety Certified. Ibrahim Jilani, UL’s Global Director of Consumer Technology, notes: “Certification is always earned by a manufacturer and not a given when they undergo a product submittal. The UL Mark, or any authorized certification mark, can only be issued upon successful demonstration of meeting the requirements of the safety standard.” You can find UL’s updated list of products Certified to UL 2849 here .

We contacted many e-bike brands on this topic. Most companies informed us they are working toward the certification process. So, expect the list of certified e-bikes to grow in the coming months. If owning a UL 2849-certified bike is important to you, ask the brand from which you plan to purchase it for proof of certification. You can cross-reference OSHA ’s Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories if you want to dive deeper into the topic.

Conversion Kits

Several manufacturers offer kits to add pedal assistance to a non-electric bike. We purchased a few popular conversion kits, fitted them to bikes, and rode them. We do not currently recommend these kits for use. While converting an old bike to an electric assist sounds good in theory, it rarely makes practical sense. Plus, it can lead to rider injury or failure of the bike.

Manufacturers do not design non-electric bikes to accommodate the extra weight and forces incurred when adding an e-bike motor, battery, and control equipment. This puts more stress on the bicycle frame and other components and can lead to breakage or failure of the bike.

Selecting most conversion kits requires knowing fitment details about your bike and might require specialized tools for installation. Many do not have a straightforward installation process, and it can be a challenging project for novice mechanics. If you want a shop to install a conversion kit, check with the shop before purchasing it. Since most non-electric bikes are not engineered to accommodate electric conversions, many shops will not install these kits.

Many economical e-bikes do not cost much more than the total price of a conversion kit plus the installation cost. We recommend buying a purpose-built e-bike for the best and safest experience.

The Three Classes of E-Bikes

After determining which style of bike is right for you, the next consideration is which class of e-bike best fits your needs. In the U.S., there are three e-bike classifications. These are defined by the type of assist and how fast the motor will propel you. Most electric bikes are defined as class 1 or 3. Class 1 bikes have a motor (max 750W) that assists while pedaling up to 20 mph. Class 3 (sometimes known as “speed pedelec”) can have up to a 750W (aka 1-horsepower) motor but can assist you up to 28 mph. Both are allowed in most states and cities without needing a license.

Class 2 models have become more popular with riders, especially at lower prices. These models have a throttle that can propel a bike up to 20 mph without needing continuous pedaling.

Some bikes blur the lines. Aventon’s popular Pace 500 , for example, is technically a Class 3 e-bike in that it reaches speeds up to 28 mph, but it also has a throttle that tops out at 20 mph (the maximum legal speed for a throttle).

Good quality e-bikes can cost a lot of money; purchasing a pre-owned bike is one way to save some cash and get a better model. If you want to shop for a used e-bike in person, some bicycle stores offer refurbished units. Shopping in person allows you to check the integrity and condition of the bike before you buy it. When purchasing from a shop, make sure that the retailer is experienced with e-bike service and that the bike includes the proper charger and battery.

If purchasing a used e-bike directly from another owner on a third-party site, it’s wise to have the bike inspected by an experienced e-bike shop or mechanic before handing over your money. E-bikes experience higher wear-and-tear than non-assist bicycles, and many e-bikes use proprietary parts or require special tools to service or update software.

With the boom in e-bike sales, a few websites have recently sprung up selling reconditioned and certified e-bikes. Often, these e-bikes have low mileage or were sales floor samples at shops—some are even brand new or are new old stock of a previous model year. While it costs more than purchasing from an individual seller, buying a used bike from these sites usually means you have some sort of warranty on your e-bike and ensures that it was inspected properly.

Two sites offering high-quality, certified pre-owned e-bikes include Upway and TPC.

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

Bill Strickland is the Rider-in-Chief of Bicycling . His equal passions for cycling and writing have led to the books Ten Points: A Memoir ; Tour de Lance: The Extraordinary Story of Cycling’s Most Controversial Champion ; Mountain Biking: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Ride ; and The Quotable Cyclist . His Bicycling story, “100 Pedal Strokes” won a National Magazine Award for Interactive Feature in 2008. In 2009, he assigned and edited the story “Broken,” which won the National Magazine Award for Public Interest. “The Escape,” the December, 2011, edition of his Bicycling magazine column The Pursuit, was named a Notable story by  The Best American Sports Writing . Various editions of his books have been translated into Dutch, German, Hebrew, and Japanese. He uses commas by rhythm and sound, which is a terrible way to do it but makes him happy.

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Bike Reviews

The 10 Best Mountain Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The Best Beach Cruisers for Leisurely Rides

The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Best Hybrid Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The 14 Best Road Bikes of 2024

The Best Commuter Bikes for Getting Around Town

These Folding Bikes Can Go Everywhere

Smoother and Faster: The New Pivot Switchblade

The Best Beginner Mountain Bikes

Reviewed: Colnago's Italian Made C68 Gravel

The 6 Best Kids’ Bikes in 2024

635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment

635-й зенитно-ракетный полк

Military Unit: 86646

Activated 1953 in Stepanshchino, Moscow Oblast - initially as the 1945th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment for Special Use and from 1955 as the 635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment for Special Use.

1953 to 1984 equipped with 60 S-25 (SA-1) launchers:

• Launch area: 55 15 43N, 38 32 13E (US designation: Moscow SAM site E14-1)
• Support area: 55 16 50N, 38 32 28E
• Guidance area: 55 16 31N, 38 30 38E

1984 converted to the S-300PT (SA-10) with three independent battalions:

• 1st independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion (Bessonovo, Moscow Oblast) - 55 09 34N, 38 22 26E
• 2nd independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion and HQ (Stepanshchino, Moscow Oblast) - 55 15 31N, 38 32 23E
• 3rd independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion (Shcherbovo, Moscow Oblast) - 55 22 32N, 38 43 33E

Disbanded 1.5.98.

Subordination:

• 1st Special Air Defence Corps , 1953 - 1.6.88
• 86th Air Defence Division , 1.6.88 - 1.10.94
• 86th Air Defence Brigade , 1.10.94 - 1.10.95
• 86th Air Defence Division , 1.10.95 - 1.5.98

• Yekaterinburg
• Novosibirsk
• Vladivostok

• Tours to Russia
• Practicalities
• Russia in Lists

Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

Plan your next trip to Russia

Ready-to-book tours.

Your holiday in Russia starts here. Choose and book your tour to Russia.

REQUEST A CUSTOMISED TRIP

Looking for something unique? Create the trip of your dreams with the help of our experts.

• Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS

We'll take care of you. Period.

It's our mission to provide you with world-class hospitality every time you visit us online or in-store. We're always here to help you. It's the Trek way.

Free shipping and professional assembly

All bikes ordered online ship for free to your local Trek shop for professional assembly. Participating retailers will even deliver your new ride to your doorstep!

30 Day Unconditional Guarantee

If for any reason you aren't 100% happy with your trekbikes.com purchase, you can return it in like new condition within 30 days - no questions asked.

MBUK’s Trail Bike of the Year 2022

“It’s easy to look at the bike from afar and assume this is just another downcountry rig... It wasn’t until I’d fired it over some jumps, nosed it down the odd steep chute and slung it through my test loops’ berms that I realised the Top Fuel is, simply put, a bloody brilliant trail bike.”

"Enduro’s Best Downcountry Bike of 2022"

"Top Fuel 9.9 XX1 AXS earned top honors in Enduro’s round-up of best downcountry rippers, thanks to the bike’s clean look, practical details, and progressive suspension."

"This is a really, really good bike"

"The Top Fuel is a very capable descender, but its well-proportioned geometry is just half the story. It manages to strike a great balance between grip, tracking, and precision. The whole bike seems to just will you on to hit things faster and with more precision."

"This thing rips"

"The new Top Fuel is also much more composed on rough and fast descents. Thanks to the longer reach and slacker head angle, the overall wheelbase length has grown by almost 40mm. That’s huge, and it offers a vastly more planted feel at speed. Along with the big tyres and active suspension, this really is a solid little trail bike."

More options